- What was your first job?
My first job following my graduation from Leeds University in 1993 was with Desmond & Sons, Ireland’s largest employer in the clothing manufacturing business, in Enniskillen. Since then I have worked in UK and global manufacturing, customer-centric roles, the personal coaching world and now the charity sector.
- What qualifications do you have?
I hold a range of qualifications including a BA in textile management from Leeds University and a Level 7 Diploma in coaching. I am also a certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner.
- What do you attribute your success to?
I have an energised approach and have always thrived on taking on new opportunities in both my professional and personal life. I love making connections with people and feel that my natural curiosity and the people I have met along the way have driven my success. I learn best by getting on with things, believe strongly that “the grass is greener where you water it most.”
- How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I would say I am easy company and fun to be around. Any personality online tests would say I am a unique activist and pragmatist!
- Who do you look up to in business?
People and organisations that best match my own values of transparency, honesty, freedom, creativity, friendship, peace, society, community, and tolerance.
- How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I listen. Nancy Kline’s ‘ten components of thinking’ are a great guide for working with colleagues and stakeholders.
- If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
That the third sector does not stand so alone in supporting the gap between the “haves and the have nots” in both society and business.
- What website or app could you not do without?
- What was the last book you read?
I typically have two on the go at once. Most recently it was Fergal Keane’s ‘The Madness’ and Tommy Jessop’s ‘A Life Worth Living’.
- What car do you drive?
I have recently swapped my 2002 Mini for a newer model – I’m hoping this one lasts as long!
- Tell us something interesting about yourself?
Around 10 years ago I qualified as a Level 7 Personal Coach and Certified NLP Practitioner. I did it really to help myself. The ability to circumnavigate change, renewal, and personal growth are very important to me, and embracing change, spring cleaning the mind and goal setting things that drive me forward in my personal and professional lives.
- What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Both the green and the blue environment. In my spare time you will find me either sailing or walking in the woods.
