Archive

How long in the job? Since August 2003.
Career highlight: I've loved every job I've done, apart from six months as a wages clerk.
Best training ever done: Creative management residential course as part of my Open University MBA.
Over the course of my career, I wish I had: Learned to trust my instincts sooner. Gut instinct in management is often distilled experience.
The person who has influenced me the most during my career is: Chancellor of the exchequer Gordon Brown. Working for him taught me being strategic doesn't mean you stop being passionate.

The most painful lesson I've learned at work is: Always start by checking the finances.
Me and my career: The Refugee Council is never dull. If there is already a message on my mobile when I get up at 6.30 am, I know it's not going to be a quiet day, so I turn on the radio and find out what the latest story is about refugees. Our staff and volunteers do everything from providing food, clothing or advice to working to change policy and shape public opinion through research or campaigns. My job as chief executive is to oversee all that, including managing staff and shaping our future strategy. But my days are always different. Recent activities include: meeting my trustees; an introduction to new Home Office ministers; seeing civil servants; attending a (brilliant) benefit evening for the Refugee Council; running a workshop for senior Anglican clerics; and shortlisting for a new head of policy. In between meetings I had morning coffee with a political editor; lunch with the heads of the Scottish and Welsh Refugee Councils and gave an after-dinner speech to Home Office immigration managers.


Curriculum Vitae
2003-current: Chief executive, Refugee Council.
2000-3: Adviser to Gordon Brown, chancellor.
1997-2000: Director, One Parent Families charity.
1991-7: Director, UKCOSA, (international education charity).
1990-1: Deputy director, UKCOSA.
1988-90: National president, National Union of Students.