What is your background with CMI?

I have been a member and involved with the organisation for 25 years, and have seen it evolve from the days of the British Institute of Management to now. It’s still satisfying to know that overall success relies on talented and dedicated volunteers who are passionate enough to give their time to the CMI.

Why is CMI important today?

Particularly in these times of austerity, the focus is on getting more for less within your organisation. Involvement with CMI develops skills and keeps managers connected in a national support network through difficult times. I have found it an invaluable ally.

What benefits has it brought you?

CMI has been the one constant throughout the twists, turns and changes during the course of my career. Also, through CMI, I met Bill Penney, a CMI Companion and good friend who helped me formalise and focus on my interim management career.

How has the branch developed during your Presidency?

We have a very strong branch – I have a good team of people around me and we have bucked trends, maintaining and expanding membership. The branch itself has grown with the merging of Doncaster and Barnsley – we are a proud member of the NEYH Region.

What is the most rewarding aspect of volunteering?

Being able to give something back to members. I have gained skills and experience across my career and through CMI, and to be able to pass that on now through events and communication with members is a wonderful and rewarding thing.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

I have faced lots of challenges throughout my career. Recently I have faced very different interim challenges at Remploy and learndirect, but I think the most challenging stage of my career was when I was very young and working in the mining industry during the strikes – that was the period that really taught me what it was to be a good leader.

What can members expect from your events?

I try to find the most inspiring and interesting speakers, and I’m constantly on the lookout for these people wherever I go. The most recent speaker was Damian Hughes, the author of Liquid Leadership, who is acclaimed by both Sir Richard Branson and Sir Alex Ferguson.

How do you decide what to present?

We avoid dry or boring subjects and try to create something that members can identify with and take inspiration from. I always have potential speakers on my radar and already have a list scoped out for the coming season. We believe in providing quality speakers who give useful information and tips for everyone who attends – add this to a quality environment and… bingo!

What advice do you give to managers?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all style of management – you have to be the right kind of manager and leader to different individuals and have highly developed communication and awareness skills.

What is your business mantra?

Motivation, motivation, motivation! I really believe in a proven process called Motivational Mapping, which focuses on the understanding of what drives people and how one can deliver the best performance out of your staff as both individuals and teams. I am working with some well-known people in this exciting area.

Find out more about Motivational Mapping here