Caroline Rhodes - Leadership Support Officer Team Leader
Tell us about yourself
I have always been interested in fitness and was lucky to work full time in the industry for over 20 years. I changed my career in 2015. I am now office-based and thoroughly enjoy my current role. I still teach a few fitness classes and enter half marathons and in the last couple of years have completed a few ultra-marathons. I am a firm believer that keeping active helps you focus better at work and have no intention of slowing down quite yet.
What attracted you to join SBC?
I have worked for SBC in leisure services since 1990 in various roles, both part-time and full-time. As my children got older I looked at a career change and completed my L3 Business Administration to complement the management experience I had gained in leisure services.
I had always been happy and well supported in my previous roles and wanted to continue to work for the council. I was very lucky to be considered for the role of a Leadership Support Officer in 2015 and have not looked back since.
What do you most enjoy about working here?
I feel privileged to work alongside staff from every layer of the business. This gives me a good insight into the business and an understanding of the expectations on staff at all levels.
I have always felt supported and encouraged by my line manager and have been lucky to be surrounded by good people.
Describe a typical day in your role?
In my role I manage a team of ten and I support four senior managers.
A typical day could involve organising meetings or workshops, diary management, minute taking, handling complaints and line management duties. Some days can be similar and other days will bring a completely different challenge. The role is varied, interesting and keeps me on my toes.
What motivates you at work?
I want to do the best I can to support the people I work with. my motivation comes from not wanting to let others down and to be part of a team that is an asset to the business.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
As mentioned earlier I enjoy keeping fit, teaching fitness classes and entering different events to keep motivated. I love walking my dog, especially early in the morning to see the sunrise!
I also enjoy spending time socialising and holidaying with friends and family. My friends will say I like moving and renovating houses - I get bored every couple of years with the same four walls!
Where is the best place you have visited?
In 2018 we were lucky enough to take a 22-day trip around Australia and Hong Kong, but Florida is always a safe bet for fun. My favourite place in the UK is Croyde in North Devon.
Who are your dream dinner guests?
Gino D’Acampo and Gordon Ramsey - to cook it
Hugh Jackman - to look at
Jenson Button - to look at and talk sport
Clare Balding - to talk sport
Sir Ian McKellen - to tell stories
Dame Judi Dench - to tell stories
Miranda Hart - so funny
Kylie Minogue - for my husband
My Husband Andy - so he doesn’t miss out on Kylie!
What is your favourite film or book and why?
Book - between Girl with the Dragon Tattoo trilogy and the Twilight saga. Film - between Fight Club and Toy Story!
What are your ambitions and aspirations?
To have a long and healthy life with my family and friends, filled with as many good times as possible!!!