So, what does being a Head of Programmes involve?
I oversee all our programmes across the learning and talent teams. Working with all our clients, I ensure the team create and deliver programmes that meet businesses’ needs, while always developing incredible opportunities for young people from socially diverse backgrounds.
What made you want to work for Visionpath?
Working for Visionpath with like-minded and passionate people brings me purpose and belonging. We are one team. I recognise the value of relationship-building and strive to bring humility and integrity into my interactions – these are the key values at the heart of everything Visionpath stands for. So I count it a blessing to wake up every day and do my job.
"Working for Visionpath with like-minded and passionate people brings me purpose and belonging."
What's the best part of your job?
It has to be witnessing candidates’ engagement during their journey with us and clients’ enthusiasm in supporting and developing talent. The buzz in the air during an insight and assessment day is incredible – as is meeting talented, diverse young people determined to take advantage of the opportunity in front of them. It also goes without saying that the Visionpath team make every day satisfying with their energy, passion and creativity.
Why do you think businesses are mad to miss out on socially diverse talent?
Representation and resilience. Diverse talent brings fresh and meaningful experiences that employers can learn from and develop. Quite often, those from diverse backgrounds have first-hand experience of being judged or profiled and not being given the opportunity to showcase their talent. They’re an inspiration for how to bounce back from setbacks, stay strong, and make your voice heard – even when parts of society don’t want to hear it. I think it’s vital businesses welcome diversity and representation as key pillars of their value set.
"those from diverse backgrounds are an inspiration for how to bounce back from setbacks, stay strong, and make your voice heard"
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Be the best version of yourself and don’t let the doubters win. It’s so easy to fall into the crowd and hide away from showcasing your talent, your skill, your passion. But take that step, jump feet-first into your challenge zone, and aim high to reach those dreams and goals. There’ll always be those who say you can’t do it… My reply? I can – and I will.
"Be the best version of yourself and don’t let the doubters win."
What do you love to do outside of work?
My greatest personal passion has to be bringing up my two young daughters – embracing fatherhood and the joys they bring to my and my wife’s everyday lives. I am passionate about giving them time to see and experience new things and teaching them about the wonderful rollercoaster that is life.
My other personal interest is supporting Arsenal and, while they don’t bring as much joy as my two girls(!), I'm still invested in the sense of belonging and identity football has brought me in my connection with family and friends.
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.
