Last month we spent time getting to know Emma Lord a bit better, and she nominated you for this month’s ‘5 minutes with’. We like to start with the basics. So, can you tell us about how you came to join the Capacity team?
I joined Capacity back in spring 2022.
I’ve been working locally in the charity, social enterprise and public sector for over 20 years. Prior to joining Capacity I was Chief Operating Officer at The Reader – a brilliant national charity and social enterprise and before that worked in local economic development as well as roles with Citizens’ Advice and The Charity Commission in my early career.
What are you most looking forward to in your role?
Lots of my work is with leaders of organisations who are at the front line of delivering public services and innovation. It’s inspiring work and I’m excited about the contribution Capacity can make in supporting them to continue to increase their impact.
Okay, now for some rapid-fire questions. What three words best describe you?
‘Getter done-er’ (new word!), supportive and fun (hopefully!).
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Not sure who gave me this advice, but I often remind myself to “trust my instincts”. Building enough confidence to do that can be hard but super valuable if you can tap into it.
What inspires you?
I get excited when I can see real potential for change. Getting stuff done is really important to me, so I love to work on things that move forward at pace.
If you could have a superpower what would it be?
It would have to be the ability to duplicate so I could be in two places at once!
What’s one thing you wish you’d known when you were younger?
Most of the stuff you worry about doesn’t really matter…
If you had a magic wand, what’s the one thing you’d fix?
A tough one as there is lots to work on, but having meaningful relationships in your life (whatever form they take!) is something everyone should be able to have.
What’s your favourite place in the Liverpool City Region?
South Liverpool, where I live. The parks, the pubs, the shops, the people – I love it.
What’s one thing on your bucket list that you want to tick off this year?
I don’t have a bucket list and I’m lucky to have most of what I need and want in my life already – time with people I love, meaningful work and a fair bit of fun!
What’s a skill you’re working on mastering?
Patience – I’m not expecting to have that nailed anytime soon!
What are you most excited about in life right now?
I love the run up to Christmas. I have two kids and try to see lots of friends and family over the festive season, so December is filled with chaos, good food & drink and plenty of laughs.
One last question – who should we spend 5 minutes with next month?
I nominate Becky Austin.
