Developing the Voluntary Sector

Joette has nine years experience as a chief executive officer (CEO) within the Scottish voluntary sector, and is passionate about what the sector contributes on both local and national levels.

She has expertise in working one-to-one with chief officers and others in leadership positions; to develop their personal effectiveness, as well as their success, sense of enjoyment and satisfaction in their work. Some particular areas on which her work has focused include:

  • Managing diverse organisational roles (relationships with staff and directors, fundraiser, PR and networking, mediator, motivator, etc.)
  • Strategic planning – consultation, evaluation, fundraising
  • Managing staff behaviour and performance- team dynamics, ensuring effective support and development opportunities
  • Coping with the increasing constraints on funding, and the insecurity that this has produced – low staff morale, alterations to service delivery

Coaching has proven to be an effective form of support and development for those in leadership positions. Combining coaching and supervision skills with her knowledge and experience of voluntary sector leadership enables Joette to offer a unique and well received service to team leaders, managers and chief officers within the sector.

In addition to working with those in positions of leadership, Joette also has significant experience in maximising the performance and potential of organisations and community groups. She offers a range of organisational development services, including:

  • Evaluation
  • Team-Building
  • Business and Development Planning
  • Training
  • Support for Action Research, Consultation and Needs Assessment
  • Fundraising

Having worked in the voluntary sector since 1994, Joette is acutely aware of the demands on organisations budgets and is therefore committed to providing cost effective solutions. Although services are available individually, custom packages offering a range of support are also available.

For example, when supporting an organisation through a significant change process, Joette can offer:

  • Consultation with staff and other stakeholders
  • Team-building sessions
  • Development planning
  • Coach both individuals and teams, to integrate learning and support new ways of working

Creative, inspired and satisfied staff provide more responsive and efficient services

Joette was the first manager of Saheliya, a mental health support project for black and minority ethnic women, which had existed for seven years as a collective prior to her arrival. This experience of managing significant organisational change, with a staff team comprised of women from no fewer than eight different cultural backgrounds, provided a rich and challenging opportunity.

During the 4 ½ years she spent at Saheliya, she raised nearly £140k, developed three new services, and established new networks and partnerships, strengthening both the organisation and its reputation.