"I used to work in the private sector and I saw an opportunity to do something different by joining Cancer Research UK. I knew a lot of people came here because they felt a personal need to contribute - but I had no idea how passionate people would be. They are so enthusiastic and their drive to get things done is incredible.
I knew that POD was becoming more customer-focused when I joined the charity, but I didn't know how far along that journey the directorate was. Now I can say that I think we're nearly there, although some areas of the organisation have grasped the idea more quickly than others. However, I'm sure the word will spread as the different directorates talk to each other.
I think there's a perception that joining a charity will be easier somehow. It's actually more challenging, but that's a positive thing. Here, there are always more opportunities outside the normal day-to-day scope of the job; opportunities to add value and improve the organisation. I would say though, that you can't be precious about things. Everything you do has to be fit for purpose. If it's not, you have to take the feedback and modify your work accordingly. After all, different directorates want different things from you. One size won't fit all."