What does a typical day involve?
Let’s take today for example. This morning one of our high profile supporters who is planning a trip with us to Africa was on a breakfast TV programme, so the early part of my day was letting people know across the organisation that this was happening so they could look after their individual donor groups. We also have GMTV and The Mirror on board with this so I’ve been confirming everything they need to know, and generally planning the media side of things in order get the most out of this high profile trip.
I’ll also be writing and helping to put together our 2008 annual review which is just in its initial stages. This review will be very case study led so I’m working a lot with our country teams across Africa, identifying stories and working with the people out there to get the material together.
This afternoon we have a meeting about ways in which to publicise the range of events we have coming up such as our running and challenge events, so rather a busy day!
How did you get into your profession?
After university I worked for a PR agency in London. I then travelled and volunteered abroad and then came to Hope and Homes for Children. It took a while to move into the charity sector though as competition for a job is fierce.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy the spontaneous element of my job and the fact that the communications team sits right across the organisation, so I get to know what everyone else is up to.
Anything you don’t enjoy?
I find it frustrating when I’ve been working on a story and at the last minute it gets pulled by the editor.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced?
My biggest challenge was definitely when I organised a trip for a UK and Canadian journalist to visit our projects in Sudan. It was really great to be given the opportunity to manage such a trip but very challenging to put it all together and make sure things ran smoothly.
What’s been your greatest achievement?
In the last 6 months I’ve been pushing forward with high profile supporter management and development. I recently approached a film star about supporting our work and now I’m in the process of planning a country visit for them. This will be massive for Hope and Homes for Children and I’ve worked very hard to achieve this.
Your top tips?
Be a people person and be proactive. Also be prepared to have your work rejected sometimes as it is part of the job.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m one hundred percent dedicated to continuing to work in the third sector. I feel very privileged to feel I’m part of something bigger that’s making such a difference to people’s lives. I’m very passionate about the work that Hope and Homes for Children does; allowing children to grow up in families really resonates with me.