What kind of training does one need to go into this type of job?
That's a very good question. I don't think there is any, specifically.
For example, in your case, what is your educational background?
Well, I did a degree in French at Nottingham. After that, I did careers work in secondary schools like the careers guidance people here is in the university. Then I went into local government because I found I was more interested in the administrative side. Then progressed on to universities. So there wasn't any plan and there was no specific training. There are plenty of training courses in management techniques and committee work which you can attend now.
But in the first place, you did a French degree.
In my time, there wasn't a degree you could do for administration. I think most of the administrators I've come across have degrees and all sorts of things.
Well, I know in my case, I did an English literature degree and I didn't really expect to end up doing what I am doing now.
Quite.
But you are local to Nottingham, actually? Is there any reason why you went to Nottingham University?
No, no, I come from the north of England, from west Yorkshire. Nottingham was one of the universities I put on my list. And I like the look of it. The campus is just beautiful.
Yes, indeed. Let's see. Were you from the industrial part of Yorkshire?
Yes, from the woolen district.