So, what does being a Programme Coordinator involve?
I joined Visionpath in January 2023, working mainly on a new Academy programme in partnership with the London Market Group designed to introduce young people to the specialty insurance industry. My role involves lots of contact with schools, students and employers to bring the programme to life and make sure everything happens as it should! I also support with sourcing apprenticeship training and advising on the process of setting up a new apprentice with a training provider.
What made you want to work for Visionpath?
I’d worked in HR for 15 years and, after taking redundancy, was looking for a change of direction working somewhere I could still use the skills I’ve developed over my career. In my last role, I particularly enjoyed working with the apprentices and graduates – it was so rewarding supporting their development and seeing them grow in their careers. Helping one of the apprentices on his journey towards a degree-level apprenticeship was a real highlight for me – especially as he told me he “never thought he could go to uni”. I was inspired by the work Visionpath does in connecting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with employers and providing opportunities they may otherwise not have access to.
"I was inspired by the work Visionpath does in connecting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with employers and providing opportunities they may otherwise not have access to."
What’s the best part of your job?
It’s very varied and there’s lots to get involved in. I love working with a highly motivated and talented team, and knowing the work we do makes a real difference.
Why do you think businesses are mad to miss out on socially diverse talent?
Diversity is so important for innovation and insight: we draw on our personal experiences to problem-solve and find solutions, so having input from people from a range of backgrounds can help generate new ideas that might not otherwise have been considered. Also, employees who feel they belong, regardless of their social background, are likely to be more productive and motivated in their work.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – it’s how we learn! Take every opportunity to learn something new and be curious about the world around you. Oh, and it’s never too early to start paying into a pension!
"Diversity is so important for innovation and insight: we draw on our personal experiences to problem-solve and find solutions, so having input from people from a range of backgrounds can help generate new ideas that might not otherwise have been considered."
What do you love to do outside of work?
I love to travel and explore new places. I backpacked extensively throughout Australia, South-East Asia, Nepal and India in my early 20s – a long time ago now, but I’ve never forgotten the experience! I visited some amazing places and met some fantastic people along the way. It was so interesting learning about different cultures and what life is like in different countries. I’ve also enjoyed lots of trips to Europe – you can’t beat a city break! Since Covid, I’ve explored more of the UK – a recent highlight was Snowdonia and climbing up that mountain. I felt such a sense of achievement when I got to the top!
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.
