VTCT now has three regional centre advisors, who will be covering centres across the whole country. The regional centre advisors will provide dedicated, hands-on customer support to continue the on-going improvement of relationships between VTCT and centres. Here we speak to Catherine Kidman, Ursula Conway and Runa McNamara about their new role.
Why did you apply for the Regional Centre Advisor position with VTCT?
CK: When I applied for the job I was told, “It’s all about the customer” and that ticked a really big box for me. People talk a lot about the “VTCT family” and how friendly and supportive all the staff are – and the opportunity to be part of such an enthusiastic and caring team was a key incentive.
UC: I wanted to be part of the VTCT team as I like the ethos of the organisation and the dedication and responsiveness of the staff. I wanted to work for a company that truly believes in its core aims, objectives and values. I like the fact that it is a charity and donates generously to a range of organisations and individuals.
RM: As VTCT Regional External Verifier for Scotland and Northern Ireland I feel as though I have been a cousin of VTCT for many years, however this new role provided me with an exciting opportunity to become a full-time member of the VTCT family and to help develop the aspirations of the organisation.
How do you think this role will benefit VTCT?
CK: Regional Centre Advisers will extend personal contact to centres which is currently driven by a highly valued team of External Verifiers. We will broaden and strengthen the channels of communication between VTCT and its centres to improve our understanding of their needs and interests.
UC: The implementation of these roles will be of great benefit to our customers as they will have a dedicated member of staff supporting and advising them on a range of courses and programmes. The role will further enhance VTCT’s already excellent relationships and reputation for being responsive and proactive with centres.
RM: It clearly demonstrates VTCT ‘s total commitment to providing the very best possible customer service by ensuring that advice, support , training and development for existing and potential new centres is provided in person.
What do you think you can bring to the role?
CK: In my previous position as a Key Account Manager at CIEH awarding body, I provided dedicated, tailored centre support and development in the education and public sectors, similar to what I will be doing in this role. My drive, commitment and enthusiasm as well as my breadth of experience in building positive relationships to improve the customer experience will also help. Above all, a good pair of ears to listen to the centres I work with will assist VTCT.
UC: In line with the ethos of VTCT I pride myself on being customer focused, proactive and responsive. I believe my knowledge, experience and understanding of colleges, awarding bodies and accreditation systems along with natural enthusiasm will further enhance our customers’ experience with VTCT.
RM: My experience of English, Irish and Scottish further and higher education systems means that I can provide the best possible support and advice to centres and VTCT alike. With over 20 years experience of working with VTCT as an examiner, EV, Senior EV, Regional EV, as a member of the Technical Expert Group, developing VTCT awards, supporting trade shows and events and the development of the partnership with HABIA in India I feel I am prepared for this role.
What do you get up to in your spare time?
CK: Salsa, salsa and more salsa – I love the energy, the music, the sociability and it’s a great way to keep fit. Food is another passion, both eating and cooking, so it’s just as well I can dance it off. I’m looking forward to getting out there, meeting and working with our centres and I look forward to hearing from centres as to how I can help them.
UC: I belong to a local gym, enjoy reading, socialising and more recently have taken up tai chi.
RM: In a nutshell – I climb mountains! I’m a ‘Munro-bagger’ and working my way through all 283 mountains in the UK over 914m (3000ft). I want to see the breathtaking view from every summit and some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the country. I also find it keeps me fit and healthy and it is a great stress buster! If you would like to contact one of the regional centre advisors please email
customerservice@vtct.org.uk
Runa McNamara will be starting with VTCT in January 2010.
From left to right, Catherine Kidman, Nic Robinson director of business development, Runa McNamara and Ursula Conway.
