So, what does being an Associate Director at Visionpath involve?
My new role has been a shift from my previous work, which was more about ‘here and now’ work with clients and colleagues. Having occasionally dipped into strategy in the past, I’m now more focused on helping our CEO, Patrick, shape the future of the business.
That can look different week-to-week and covers a broad scope of work. A big part of what I do is developing new partnerships and opportunities for the business, which means staying up to date with the latest research and work in the social mobility and apprenticeship space. Right now, a key focus is client development – building strong relationships with prospective clients and connecting with the right people in organisations to drive fresh opportunities or look at how our programmes can support their aspirations for talent and social diversity.
"I’m really excited about the new programmes and opportunities we’re offering to clients (watch this space!)"
The experience and knowledge I’ve built over my career – particularly the last few years at Visionpath – helps me innovate, designing and developing new programmes and solutions that align with our future goals. I’m really excited about the new programmes and opportunities we’re offering to clients – we’re moving into new areas we haven’t necessarily worked in before (watch this space!), but I’m confident our team has the skills and knowledge to deliver to an exceptional standard.
What made you want to work for Visionpath?
I love the idea that in everything we do we’re helping young people build a successful future. I’ve had different roles in my career, but everything I’ve done has centred around helping people reach their potential. I love that we help people, but what I love even more is that we’re creating opportunities those people wouldn’t otherwise have.
When I work with a group of students and I see their potential, I’m so glad the work we do gives them a chance to channel it into something special. I’m driven to help people recognise that potential in themselves and achieve what they’re capable of. Working towards that every day reminds me that we do a really good thing for so many people, and that’s hugely rewarding for me.
"When I first joined it was just three of us and now we’re up to eleven! That kind of expansion is exciting because we the capacity to make a positive impact for more socially diverse talent."
What’s the best part of your job?
One of the best parts of my job is helping shape the direction of the business. It’s rewarding to see how our decisions and strategies come to life and make a real impact, and the potential they have to transform the business over the next year and beyond.
Beyond that, it’s great to witness the growth – not just in what we’re doing, but in the size of the team, too. When I first joined it was just three of us for a long time, and now we’re up to eleven! That kind of expansion is exciting because it means we’re building something and have the capacity to continue making a positive impact for more socially diverse talent.
Why do you think businesses are mad to miss out on socially diverse talent?
They’re effectively choosing to pass on so many benefits that will help them progress – like innovation, engagement, and customer insight. I've met many brilliant individuals from varied backgrounds who’re not only motivated, enthusiastic, and keen to learn, but also ready to bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to tackle problems.
"I've met many brilliant individuals from varied backgrounds who’re not only motivated, enthusiastic, and keen to learn, but also ready to bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to tackle problems."
Not only are you missing out on great people, but you’re also missing out on having a workforce that reflects the society and customers you serve. Any business would be mad to miss out on that.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
The worst that can happen is “no”. As an 18-year-old I would overthink things – if I was considering asking an ‘adult’ for work experience or insight, I would end up talking myself out of it by thinking of all the reasons they wouldn’t be able to help. Now, I know it only takes one “yes”. So I’d encourage myself to explore opportunities, meet more people, and engage people in the positions I wanted to be in. The worst they can do is not reply, but you only need one “yes” to unlock opportunities and your potential.
I’d say the same to any 18-year-old now: it only takes a chance conversation to make a good impression on someone – and you never know where that could take you – so make the most of the opportunities that present themselves.
"It only takes a chance conversation to make a good impression on someone – and you never know where that could take you – so make the most of the opportunities that present themselves."
What do you love to do outside of work?
I have a close-knit family, so spending time with them is always a priority for me – that’s how I like to spend most of my free time. Other than that, football has been my biggest passion since childhood. Although I no longer play, I now dedicate myself to coaching – the commitment remains, and being on the sidelines still gives me the same buzz playing did!
Here at Visionpath, we do what we do because we want all young people – no matter their background – to start their career on an equal footing. And because we know that, right now, businesses are missing out on a wealth of untapped talent.
Want to find out what Visionpath can do for you? Get in touch.
