What does your role involve?

I work with people who want to put in a funding application. I advise them on what we can fund and our investment principles. Sometimes this advice happens over the phone or via email, but I also get out and about across Wales, meeting people at funding fairs and events and participating in forums. I also take part in online webinars.

I support the Head of Engagement with the Expressions of Interest we receive, and often help my colleagues with assessing applications to see if they’re suitable to proceed to our decision meetings and with monitoring the progress of heritage projects we’ve already funded.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Visiting people and learning about them and their heritage. When you meet with people face to face you understand their passion for the project and why it’s important to them. It’s also great to see projects start and how they progress.

What do you enjoy about working here?

I really love the teams I work with and the opportunities we have to collaborate and connect – both in the office environment and at development and team building away days. And there’s so much passion for heritage right across the organisation. Everyone is here to do good.

What’s the highlight of your time at the Heritage Fund?

During the coronavirus pandemic I was involved in delivering our Heritage Emergency Fund. This programme was key, as lots of organisations, such as museums, wouldn’t still be open it if wasn’t for our grants during that time. It felt like a lot of trust was placed in me to be a part of this project and I learned a lot along the way.

What motivates you at work?

My background is in youth work and heritage. Before I started here, I had written applications for heritage funding, so I understand how people feel when they are looking for a grant. As a Senior Engagement Manager I have conversations with a lot of organisations that are passionate about their heritage and need support to translate that passion into a successful application. I particularly enjoy supporting smaller heritage groups. The more support we can give them, the better chance of their stories being told and their heritage being conserved.