How would you describe your role in one sentence?

I love the variety that comes with my role, it’s all about meeting fantastic people, making things happen and being able to multi-task when we get busy, especially during the lead-up to Christmas, when our biggest fundraising events take place in the community.

How many people do you come into contact with?

I’m lucky enough to come into contact with so many supporters, volunteers and staff members every day, it’s one of the things I find most rewarding about my job.  Last year, our team had 1,300 supporters taking part in their own events, challenge events and our Hospice events (and that doesn’t include our Summer Fete or Light Up A Life events).

What’s the first thing you do on a typical day?

After getting my laptop fired up, I tend to check my emails and then check in with my supporters and the other members of my team.

What’s your favourite task?

I love the actual day of an event, there’s always an air of excitement and we pull together to create the best experience possible for everyone involved. Event days can be busy and things can change at short notice, but I enjoy thinking on my feet and problem solving. I love the atmosphere of events like our Summer Fete at Sandown Racecourse and our Santa Fun Run at Bushy Park, which signals the start of the festivities for many local people. It’s the feeling of knowing we’re all there for the same reason and pulling together to create the best experience possible for our generous supporters. Some of our families are running in memory of a loved one or close friend, which we never forget.

What’s the most interesting thing about your job?

I love that every day is different, and things can come up that you’re not expecting – a call from a supporter who wants to sign up to an adrenaline event or put on an event in aid of the Hospice. In a single day I could be organising collection buckets in the community or wishing someone the best of luck for their skydive!

What do you think other people would be surprised to know about your role?

There’s a lot of preparation work that goes on behind the scenes ahead of all our events. We offer our fundraisers support and advice along the way, whether that’s on running a successful golf day, or maximising their fundraising for a marathon, which I find really rewarding. Stewarding supporters through their journey can make the difference between them choosing to support us again or not, and we’re really appreciative of their incredible efforts.  It’s not just about cake sales and coffee mornings (though they matter too!), but a whole lot of people who put their heart and soul into supporting us.

What skills do you need to do your job?

I think time management is key, along with multi-tasking abilities and strong communication skills, compassion – oh, and the ability to get along with people from all walks of life.

Who have you learned the most from at the Hospice?

I’ve learnt the most from my team colleagues. We’re a good team and work well together because we all care about making our events as enjoyable as possible for everybody involved.

What would you say to anybody considering a career in charity fundraising?

I’d say you have to be passionate about the cause you’re working for, be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in on event days, but above all be prepared to work hard and make sure your supporters feel valued.