Where are you from?

I am from Newcastle.

What is your role at Diversity NE?

Employment Services Manager.

What is your career background?

While studying my BA (Hons) at Northumbria University, I did my dissertation on Azure. I attended a jobs fair when my studying came to an end and noticed Azure had a stand there and seized the opportunity to introduce myself.

That morning their Administration Assistant for the Employment Services department had tendered their resignation. I expressed an interest in the role, and the rest is history! 

I have been with Azure for 21 years now, since September 1999, however I have only been in my current post for 6 months.

Can you share a career highlight?

We create newsletters to highlight client achievement and to showcase the work we do. These are distributed widely including to referral agencies.

Several years ago, Jobcentre Plus colleagues received a copy and this was passed to DWP and from there made its way to the Cabinet Office as an example of good practice and delivery.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I am proud to work for an organisation that supports so many people who are disabled or disadvantaged and share this passion with some wonderfully dedicated and enthusiastic colleagues. The most rewarding part of the job is witnessing clients grow in confidence and gaining self-belief. 

Why did you want to be involved with Diversity NE? 

It’s exciting to be involved with this new project and be active in its development. I wanted to be involved in this project because I believe local projects support local people best.

I have confidence in the shared values of both organisations and the extensive experience both parties bring, will actively support hundreds of people across the North of Tyne area. I want to be involved with a project that will have a positive impact on local communities.