My values keep me aligned on my squiggly career path 

From working in the public sector, third sector, and now financial services, my career hasn’t followed a straight line. But it’s always followed a purpose: people. 

My role as Culture Manager at Phoenix Group 

Now, as Culture Manager at Phoenix Group, I spend my time scanning the horizon for shifts that could impact our culture, from internal changes to wider societal trends. I use tech to surface insights from colleague feedback, spot patterns, and help shape strategies that support people to do their best work. 

Volunteering keeps me connected to my purpose

Volunteering is one of the ways I stay connected to my purpose. I’m a Scout Leader in my community, and recently I returned to the Scottish Young Carers Festival, a place I first visited over a decade ago while working in young people’s services. This time, I was there as a Phoenix Group volunteer, alongside colleagues from across the business.

It reminded me that culture is shaped in the space between things, in how we show up when it matters and share a moment. And that stepping outside the day job can deepen our connection to it.

I’m proud to work for an organisation that supports carers, both in our communities and within our own workforce. That’s what a future-fit culture looks like: one that’s human, values-led, and always looking ahead. Society needs diversity of thought and the ability to bring fresh perspectives to our work, especially from communities that are too often overlooked.

If you’re thinking about volunteering — do it. Local groups like Scouts and Brownies are often in desperate need of volunteers. The presence of a positive adult role model can be life-changing for a child. All colleagues across Phoenix Group are entitled to three days off for volunteering and giving some of your time, energy, and care could make more of a difference than you’ll ever know.