Hi Sam! Since you’re one of our newest team members at Capacity, we thought we’d get to know you a bit better. So, let’s start with the basics – how did you come to join Capacity?
I joined the team just over a month ago. Before that, I spent 3 years as a Primary Care Manager in the Kensington/Smithdown area of Liverpool, bringing together 6 GP practices and building a team to provide extra services to the community. I was first introduced to Capacity in this role and had the chance to work with some of the team. I was really impressed by the quality and culture of the organisation.
When I heard about Yonder I was excited – it seemed like a challenge (in a good way). What Capacity are trying to achieve in this space is interesting and I loved the fact that it’s a not for profit. I also have a background in recruitment and Yonder’s core purpose is to build a workforce that meets everyone’s needs, so it seemed like a great fit for me!
Yonder is a brand new venture from Capacity, so it’s an exciting time to get on board. What are you most looking forward to in your role?
Definitely launching Yonder later this year, and hopefully being able to see the positive impact we have across the Liverpool City Region.
Okay, now for some rapid fire questions. What three words best describe you?
Sexy, charismatic and delusional.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“It doesn’t matter what anyone thinks of you when you arrive, it’s far more important what they think of you when you leave”.
If you recognise the saying, Klopp quoted it when he announced his retirement. I first heard it from a previous CEO about 10 years and it stuck with me. It changed my outlook on managing teams to focus more on building strong foundations and empowering others to thrive rather than trying to prove that I was directly instrumental in the success.
What inspires you?
When I see people fight what they know might be a losing battle with dignity and courage. My late uncle had MS and whilst he could, he approached life with a vigor and energy that was inspirational.
If you could have a superpower what would it be?
The ability to regenerate, like a new life in a computer game. Then I could climb any mountain I wanted, probably not be so scared of heights and never need to worry about falling.
What’s one thing you wish you’d known when you were younger?
Being angry is more often than not a pointless endeavor.
If you had a magic wand, what’s the one thing you’d fix?
One of our world’s many societal problems! I’d start at the beginning of life and try to fix society so that children were never exposed to abuse or neglect. Simple!
What’s your favourite place in the Liverpool City Region?
Leasowe Bay in Wallasey. It’s where I had the first date with my fiancé Lucy, and where I often enjoy starting or ending my days walking my dog Dave.
What’s one thing on your bucket list that you want to tick off this year?
Buying a house with my fiancé and officially moving in together to ‘our’ first home.
Who’d play you in a biopic about your life?
I’d love to say Keanu Reeves as he is a cool loner with a dog but probably more Clint Eastwood or Jeff Bridges… I’m trying to think of people who play old, grumpy men with a dog.
What’s a skill you’re working on mastering?
I’ve just started trying to master the ability to walk on my hands which my sister – an ex-gymnast – believes I will never be able to. I aim to do it by the end of the year!
What are you most excited about in life right now?
The next few years with my fiancé. Moving in, tying the knot, and exploring some more of the world together.
Thanks Sam, great answers! One last question – who should we spend 5 minutes with next month?
I nominate Harriet (Senior Development Manager) since she’s the newest member of the team!