Team Member

Sharon Wilson

New Opportunities Manager

sharon.wilson@voluntarywork.org.uk

Hi my name is Sharon Wilson and I am the New Opportunities manager. I started my career in the financial world, as accounts officer for an American merchant bank. This involved me working with clients in America, Europe, Asian and the Middle East. Where I have received several awards in recognition of the work as an ambassador for the bank.

After 13 years of finance, I found myself on the receiving end of unemployment, which allowed me to readdress my current situation. I became a mature student with the Open University, studying Sociology, Psychology and Criminology. This helped me to understand human behaviour better so when I entered the Job centre to first sign on, I realised that I was on the wrong end of the counter.

My big break came through an opportunity that presented its self at the Hammersmith and Fulham Development Agency (HFVDA). Where I was given a short-term contract as the New Deal co-ordinator. Again faced with unemployment again, I was headhunted by the Kensington and Chelsea Voluntary to co-ordinated the New Deal programme.

In my first year I worked with over 70 people, helping them realise their career goals. Since then I have developed the programme and made it a success working in partnership with the private sector lead contract holders Work Directions.

This has been the most satisfying role I have ever and I say again ever had, it has allowed me to meet and work with so many different people and from all walks of life.  It has been an amazing journey!