Training & Skills Manager and Trainer
Matt has been with Social Enterprise Kent (SEK) since June 2020 and has had several roles within SEK. Matt has many years of experience in Voluntary, Charity, and Social Enterprise (VCSE), Employability, Retail, Hospitality, and contract management. Matt is a strong believer in supporting people to achieve all their potential.
Matt has a strong belief in the ‘Improving Lives, Supporting Communities’ mission of SEK and believes that the training offered by SEK to individuals and organisations is the best way to support everyone on their journey to improve their situations.
“With the amazing Training Team and colleagues at SEK we can help so many people achieve their goals and if more business, organisations, and individuals buy their training with SEK we can pay it forward and support even more people and organisations to improve their situations”.
Senior Trainer
Angie is, a seasoned Trainer with a rich career in the sector since 2006. Her expertise lies in delivering vocational and professional training across Kent, covering both commercial and community-based projects. As a qualified Tutor and Assessor, Angie specialises in Health and Social Care, while also adeptly delivering compliance and management training.
Angie’s passion lies in providing delegates with the opportunity to enhance themselves, taking a proactive role in empowering them to excel in their chosen fields. She leads by example, fostering a culture of growth and achievement among the individuals she trains. Angie’s engaging training style consistently upholds the high standard synonymous with the ethos of Social Enterprise Kent, reflecting a commitment to excellence and positive impact within the community.
Business Coach & Trainer
With a dynamic career that spans across various industries, Annabelle has established herself as a versatile professional. Her journey began in the travel and then airline industry, swiftly moving to innovative internet startups, including a notable period working with Sir Bob Geldof. After dedicating time to family life, she transitioned to becoming a qualified lecturer in business, airline, travel, and customer service.
For the past eighteen years, she has co-managed with her husband a successful preservation company while also founding a consultancy business specialising in assisting micro businesses with processes, efficiencies, and software solutions. Her real passion lies in mentoring and training, a commitment she extends through her volunteer work with The Kent Foundation, supporting young business owners.
Outside of her professional life, Annabelle is a dedicated parent to three teenagers, two of whom are national champion racing drivers. She spends many weekends at racetracks across the UK, supporting her children in achieving their dreams.
“I find the greatest fulfilment in empowering individuals to realise their potential, drawing from my diverse experiences to inspire and guide them towards success.”
Trainer, Data and IT Manager
Brian is responsible for IT support across SEK. He is also a qualified trainer and he has previously worked in Admin roles for Adult Social Care, Adults with Learning Disabilities, and Adult Safeguarding, with a few brief diversions into working in IT and Security.
Built his first PC at age 13, and has been hooked into all things IT ever since, he spends his free time either reading, gaming or planning his next tattoo
Business Coach & Grants Officer
Heather’s dedication to the voluntary sector spans over 15 years, marked by a consistent drive to empower individuals and organisations to make a positive difference in their local communities. Since 2008, she has been providing invaluable support and expertise to voluntary sector organisations and delivering impactful community projects.
In 2017, Heather joined SEK, where her talent for driving positive change truly flourished. Her initial involvement in the highly successful Ageless Thanet project, which brought vibrancy and connection to older adults, set the stage for her continued contributions to diverse initiatives. From raising cancer awareness to fostering apprenticeship opportunities and strengthening food security programmes, Heather has worked on a multitude of projects that have enriched the lives of Kent residents.
Heather’s passion shines brightly in her current role as Grants Officer and Social Enterprise Advisor on the Thanet Social Enterprise Boost programme. Through personalised mentoring and support, she empowers social enterprises to thrive, equipped with the resources and guidance they need to turn their visions into reality.
“I firmly believe in empowering people to use their skills and knowledge to support their local communities. By guiding and supporting individuals and organisations, we create a ripple effect of positive change, making a lasting impact on the communities we live in.”
Training & Events Co-Ordinator and Trainer
Maxine embarked on her career in the customer accounts department of an insurance company, steadily climbing the ranks and expanding her expertise into Training and Process Re-engineering. A shift led her to the world of education, where she contributed to the development of young minds, teaching across Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 2 (KS2). Among her noteworthy achievements is the orchestration of an interschool chess competition, engaging a whopping 164 children in three months of lunchtime matches.
Joining Social Enterprise Kent (SEK) in February 2021, Maxine has left her mark by overhauling the booking process and training website. Her organisational prowess has earned her the affectionate moniker “The Oracle,” as she possesses an innate knowledge of the organisational landscape and its intricate workings. Maxine’s keen eye for detail is currently put to use as she assists the finance team in providing maternity cover.
“I place my colleagues and our customers at the core of everything I do. Embracing the diversity of my role, I thrive on collaboration with colleagues to overcome challenges and contribute to shaping a better tomorrow” says Maxine, reflecting her dedication to both her team and the broader vision of SEK.
Trainer and Senior Business Advisor
Bringing over three decades of extensive business experience to the table, Michael is a seasoned professional with a diverse background. His journey began as a social entrepreneur, where he successfully built and later sold his own business. Michael’s career trajectory has been marked by significant contributions to multinational food companies, showcasing his expertise on a global scale. Armed with a master’s degree in business administration and a postgraduate qualification in sustainability, Michael combines academic acumen with practical insights.
Beyond the boardroom, Michael finds joy in pursuits that amplify his adventurous spirit. Whether navigating the open road on motorcycles or harnessing the wind on a sailboat, he embodies a zest for life that extends beyond business endeavours. Additionally, Michael serves on the board of one of the county’s major charities, underlining his commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
In his current role as Senior Business Advisor for the past two years, Michael continues to leverage his wealth of knowledge and experience to guide and elevate the initiatives of Social Enterprise Kent.
“I meet some brave people doing very interesting things, it is a pleasure to be of service. Organisations have increasing costs and are looking for more revenue. We are paid by local and national government to provide free business advice to help organisations to find new revenue and manage costs. Our support can be online and in person, via group courses and one-to-one. Please contact us if you are interested.”
Business Support / Sales Executive
With over 35 years of corporate experience under her belt, Sarah has a wealth of experience across Procurement, Operations, Marketing and Account Management, and has also run her own business for a number of years. When Sarah joined SEK, she brought a passionate commitment to empowering individuals by equipping them with the business acumen and self-assurance required to reinforce their organisation.
“By providing others the chance to enhance their abilities and deepen their understanding of business, I believe we not only equip them with assurance and insight but also empower them to make better decisions for future sustainability.”
Director of Business and Skills
Peter has been with Social Enterprise Kent since June 2018 having worked in a number of roles prior to this one. Peter has worked in the Voluntary, Charity and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector for over 20 years with a number of local and national organisations.
Peter studied at the University of Ulster and completed the Developing Managers Programme and a postgraduate advance diploma in “Sustainability in the Third Sector”, he is passionate about helping people, overseas development and travel.
Sales and Marketing Manager
Gina is fueled by her enthusiasm for making a positive impact through her work at Social Enterprise Kent (SEK), where she plays a pivotal role in marketing. Eager to champion SEK and the broader realm of social enterprise, Gina finds joy in disseminating the organisation’s message.
She holds the SEK team in high regard, recognising their exceptional qualities “Our team is phenomenal from our CEO to our dedicated trainers and those involved in community, school, and business projects! I love the collective passion that propels SEK forward, each team member plays a crucial role in keeping the organisation’s wheels turning. For me, contributing to the betterment of communities is a daily source of fulfilment in my work.”
With a solid foundation in sales and customer service across diverse industries, Gina seamlessly integrates her expertise into her role. Drawing from her background, she is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and leveraging her sales skills. Gina’s focus extends beyond routine transactions; she actively collaborates with corporate organisations, working in partnership to develop social value strategies. Her goal is to implement programs that align with their social value, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.