Why are you part of the Management Board and what do you get out of it?

I did not join the management board straight away, I was initially asked by Lynne to help with a particular problem, it meant I had to meet with her on a few occasions and got to know what it was that Participation Works was about.

Lynne invited me to a management board meeting and I was impressed with the impact they have with such small resources available to them, so I joined the board.

What I get out of it is seeing that I can have an impact at grass roots level.

What expertise do you bring to the Board?

I bring 50 years experience of being part of the business community in Burnley. Starting at low level being in aerospace engineering, then plowing a path for myself in this difficult environment as a woman in engineering, to working my way up the ladder and eventually ending up as Director and General manager of the factory I started work in.

Then starting my own software and consultancy company which I still operate where I act as Coach Mentor and Friend to many businesses, working at strategic level on long term basis or just assisting with specific problems.

I work on a commercial basis as well as pro bono work - I am very much a generalist, having experience in finance, funding, HR and operations.

I would hope this breadth and depth of experience give added value to the board.

What advice would you give to young people today?

Believe in your dream - you can achieve anything you want to do by having the right attitude and work hard. Nothing is handed to you on a plate and whilst luck might play a small part in your future you have to make your own opportunities, but there are people about who can help - you just need to ask.

Thank you, Carole!