I love what I do. I know not everyone can say that.

I’d never imagined doing this work when I was younger, or that it could bring me such deep satisfaction.

Having initially trained to become a lawyer, I knew that this was an occupation that I didn’t see myself in the longer term, so shifted my focus to accountancy and training for membership of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. It was whilst doing this training that I first started volunteering with the Prince’s Trust and British Council, gaining valuable insight into the charitable sector.

This led to working first as a Finance Manager for two years and then as the Chief Executive of a charity in London for the next 15 years. Using my skills to make a positive difference in the lives of others and working with people who had a common vision of creating a more equitable society for everyone to enjoy, I found my job satisfaction.

MY EXPERTISE

This experience, alongside additional qualifications in Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Post Graduate Certificate in Voluntary Sector Management and continuing professional development, gaining membership of the Institute of Fundraising and Charity Finance Directors Group, has given me a deep understanding and technical knowledge of charity sector management. Coupled with my legal and accountancy training it has equipped me with the expertise and skills needed to support charities of all sizes to succeed at what they do.

Having led a community-based charity delivering a range of services including children’s and youth services, adult education and training, support for refugees and asylum seekers, older people’s services and capacity building for smaller voluntary groups, I’ve learned through experience the unique challenges and issues faced by charities regardless of their focus.

At a personal level, I’ve also learnt the importance of finding balance in life, not being consumed by work-related issues or becoming overwhelmed by the often difficult circumstances or personal stories of the people that we strive to help. I’ve found practising yoga and exercise is critical to my own health and wellbeing: you’ll often find me on my yoga mat or sweating it out in a CrossFit class to stay fit and active.

THE BIRTH OF HAMILTON CONSULTING

In 2016 I decided to use my knowledge and experience to support other charitable organisations and set up Hamilton Consulting. At the same time, I trained to become a qualified Body Psychotherapist to enhance my knowledge and understanding of psychology and behavioural science, supporting my ability to provide effective and personalised coaching and mentoring.

Since then I’ve worked with a diverse range of organisations across the UK, from small community groups to national charities. I’ve assisted them to raise millions of pounds in additional funding, helped to develop strategies, policies and procedures to define and improve their delivery and supported staff at all levels through coaching and mentoring to feel confident and knowledgeable in their roles. Using my established networks, I have developed a team of experienced partners with whom I collaborate to meet the specific needs of my clients, whether that’s graphic design, community engagement, research or workshop facilitation.

Knowing that together we have achieved more than I could have alone towards creating an equitable society gives me immense satisfaction.

WORKING TOGETHER

I would love to continue sharing the knowledge and skills I have developed over my career to date with other organisations or individuals who might benefit from the experience. If you think this might be you or if you think there might be something that I could offer your organisation then get in touch. If I don’t feel I can add value or give you the best support you need, I can also help you find that support from others within my network who might be better suited to meet your specific requirements.