SPOTLIGHT ON…

ISABEL STIRLING, DIRECTOR OF HR AND THE BET HR TEAM

What does a typical day look like to you and what are you currently working on?

My working days are very varied. They can range from activities such as planning the people aspects for new schools transferring into the Trust, working with my team to write policies or develop procedures as the number of people we look after expands, advising line managers and staff on particular issues, and keeping up to date with external developments in employment law and HR best practice.

What 3 words would you use to describe your role?

Rewarding, challenging, varied

What is on your wish list for the next five years at BET?

Helping to make BET schools a great place to work. Seeing the Trust and individuals progress on their desired paths

What’s your favourite line from a film?

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

On a positive morning (i.e. it’s not raining!) the opportunity to go out for a quick run in peace!

How would you describe your day job to a child?

I tell my children that I spend my day listening and talking to people and working on the computer.

What is your biggest achievement to date, personal or professional?

I always find this question really hard because I don’t like blowing my own trumpet. It’s probably a combination of raising a family while being able to succeed in a field of work I really enjoy.

“Every family needs a marmalade day”

What do you like most about your job?

The variety, working with many different people and in different schools. When we get things right we make a difference to people.