Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, where you grew up and and your career journey to date?
I was born in Alberta, Canada, and moved to Sheffield in 2001, and later to Glasgow in 2005. My career started as a contract researcher doing pedagogic research which eventually led me into educational development—essentially helping academics to be better teachers. Naturally, as teaching isn’t the only job of academics, my interests and my work have moved into developing staff’s research, knowledge exchange, and, most recently, entrepreneurship. All of which I now see as very connected.
What is your role at the University of Strathclyde and what are your main responsibilities?
I’m the University’s academic development lead for knowledge exchange and entrepreneurship within the Organisation and Staff Development Unit (OSDU). My main responsibilities are to support and develop staff on their chosen career pathways. Currently, my focus is on engaging staff more and more effectively with knowledge exchange and entrepreneurship.
What's your favourite thing about your role?
That’s easy: it’s the people. And it’s always been the people. Strathclyde is such a wonderful place to work because of the amazing people that I get to liaise and collaborate with. Our values say it all, really.
Why should University staff, students and alumni work with the team at Strathclyde Inspire?
Why work with Inspire? Because they are the people best situated to help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals. A group of people who care passionately about entrepreneurship and have the expertise to help you succeed.
What’s your favourite food/type of cuisine?
Sushi and Japanese food in general. I adore it.
What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
To date, probably leaving my job and uprooting my family in Canada to move to the UK. In the future, who knows?!
