1. How long have you worked with Charity People and what was your career to date before here?
They say that time flies when you’re enjoying yourself and that old cliché rings true as this is my 12th year in a wonderful career at Charity People. I’ve been working for 22 years in total so in theory I’ve had more than half of my career at CP! I had quite a mixed career before recruitment, including the worlds of Banking, Hollywood, and Publishing. In between those I travelled around the world a few times and wrote a book too. It’s been a hell of a ride so far!
2. Why did you decide to join Charity People?
It was a simple equation really. I loved fundraising, charity work, and I was half decent at recruitment. When an ex-colleague popped up at Charity People she recommended me, and the rest, as they say, is another cliché!
3. What do you feel you uniquely bring to your clients at Charity People?
I guess I bring them me. That’s pretty unique. I wear my heart on my sleeve, I hate failing at anything, and I have a real love and fascination of people. I wouldn’t say I’m the world’s best recruiter (I leave that to my wonderful team), but I genuinely care, and I love seeing a happy client and candidate at the end of a really fulfilling, life-changing project.
4. What advice would you give to people looking for a job in data in the current market?
My top tips would be to have a positive, flexible attitude where you’re happy to pitch in with whatever it takes to get the job done as a team. I’d say to brush up on your technical skills as much as possible too, especially software like Excel and SQL as those skills are always in demand. And when you do get your chance, really focus on getting your head down and making a development plan so you know where your career is going. Oh, and try not to move around more than once every couple of years. Future employers prefer someone who’s going to stick around!
5. Any top tips on being a great data worker?
It’s difficult to teach, but the people who tend to go furthest in the world of data have strong communications skills. Most of the other technical aspects can be taught, but if you’re able to work on the comms side of your development too, well you’ll go far.
