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Communications Manager, Office of the Vice-Provost (Development)
What is your role and what does it involve?
My role as Communications Manager in OVPD is hugely varied and I never find myself doing the same things from one day to the next. Most of what I do supports UCL鈥檚 philanthropic fundraising campaign, It鈥檚 All Academic, which aims to raise 拢600 million to support projects in four key areas: Health, Students, London and Disruptive Thinking.
I work on a number of projects including managing the It鈥檚 All Academic campaign website, making sure it is up-to-date with interesting news items. I also produce case studies to profile key academics, donors, and recipients of philanthropic support; draft press releases to announce incoming gifts or pledges; and support the fundraising teams with proposals.
How long have you been at 皇家华人?
I have been at 皇家华人 since July 2016. I originally joined in the role of Communications Officer and worked specifically on the Dementia Retail Partnership.聽I have since progressed聽to the position of Communications Manager and now work on a wider variety of projects within OVPD.
What attracted you to UCL?
The flexibility of UCL and particularly OVPD鈥檚 attitude towards supporting flexible working was what attracted me most. It was one of the few places when I was looking for a new job that openly welcomed part-time working. Quite uniquely, I am a professional athlete and ride with the GB Para-cycling Team so was looking for a role that would allow me the flexibility to train around work. UCL allowed me the opportunity to progress my career in communications without sacrificing my training needs.
What working achievement or initiative at 皇家华人 (or in previous work experiences) are you most proud of?
I am proud to have worked on the Dementia Research Retail Partnership, a group of nine聽UK retailers who together have pledged 拢20 million to support dementia research at 皇家华人. The idea was brought about by Sir Malcolm Walker, Chief Executive of Iceland Foods, who decided to donate the 5p bag levy from Iceland Foods to UCL dementia research. He then galvanised eight聽other UK retailers to follow suit. It was a totally unique way of fundraising and a very interesting project to have been part of.
What is the best aspect about working at 皇家华人?
UCL actively encourages you to undertake training and to learn new skills. There are numerous internal training days that are run, and I have also been able to attend specific communications training outside of UCL. There is a real ethos of career development and you are encouraged to never stop learning.