Focussing on our showcase of inspirational women leading up to International Women’s Day – #breakingthebias on 8th March, we would like to introduce our very own Tenant: Katherine Archer, Business Support Manager, Services Design Solution (SDS).
Katherine, born and bred in our lovely City of Plymouth gives us a little background about herself:
I started off my career working for a construction company and after falling in love with the marketing side of the business, took up a training contract with law firm, Foot Anstey. After completing two Chartered Institute of Marketing qualifications, I joined a digital learning and development company focussing on events and social media. I am now a Business Support Manager with SDS, based within the Millfields. I’ve been with SDS for two and a half years. The business has changed so much during my time and we have had a particularly fantastic 18 months, winning numerous awards and working on prestigious projects across the South West and South Wales – it’s a team I’m very proud to be part of.I also enjoy being an active committee member for ‘South West Women in Construction’ and the secretary for ‘Women in Property South West’.
Katherine is very passionate about helping others and is fortunate to work for a business where social value is embedded into its culture – SDS donates 1% of turnover to local charity and wellbeing groups every year. She says, “ A crucial part of her role is championing social value across our business – whether it be organising food to be delivered to the foodbank, identifying charities we can help, volunteering for wellbeing groups or talking to young people about careers in construction and STEM”. When asked what is important to her – a straight forward answer “Integrity”. We absolutely agree too.
In her spare time, she enjoys watching her daughter play rugby and spending time with family (including their very energetic Sproodle ‘Una’) as well as visiting the Hoe rain or shine, and enjoying the wild scenes of Dartmoor.
Interesting fact ….. Katherine is currently learning to dance for the Strictly Hugs Dancing competition in October, raising money for Hugs From Henry. Katherine says “I’m so excited and nervous”, we will be cheering you on!
Katherine ends our interview with advice to other females wishing to start their business and further their career;
“Build a strong network – There are some great groups across the region and I’ve taken part in some fantastic opportunities through these connections. LinkedIn is also a great tool to engage and build rapport with others”.
I am sure you will agree, if you have had the privilege to meet Katherine her passion, kind nature and sense of humour lights up your day! A true inspiration to women in Plymouth and a great addition to support our celebration for International Women’s Day. For further information about Services Design Solution please visit www.sdsolution.co.uk.