Jessica Wood began working as fundraising assistant at the hospice in April 2016, bringing transferrable skills from her previous job as a college lecturer.
In 2020, Jessica made a change and began working in the hospice’s finance department, whilst studying towards AAT Foundation courses in accounting at Buxton and Leek College.
Jessica, who lives in Glossop, explained: ‘I loved teaching but fell out of love with the education system and how it operated, so I decided to start looking for a new job and a career change. I had lots of transferable skills which I thought I could bring to the fundraising team here at the hospice, and I wanted to do something that I felt made a difference, and had an impact.
‘I supported the fundraising team for several years as an assistant, undertaking roles including liaising with local supporters who were raising money for the hospice; celebrating success with cheque presentations; hosting events and stalls; and organising seasonal initiatives including Easter and Christmas knitting.
‘I started supporting Karen, the finance manager, one day per week due to an increase in her workload, and I realised I really enjoyed the tasks she was asking me to do. I looked at the possibility of undertaking some training and spoke to the HR manager who encouraged me that it was something the hospice could support me with.
‘The chance to undertake the accounting courses at night-school was an amazing boost to me personally and gave me confidence that the hospice supported me and my personal goals for development in my career.
‘The initial career change for me was the scariest thing I’ve ever done but it honestly turned out to be the best. Nearly eight years later, I am enjoying my job more than ever and feel really settled in a job I absolutely love! My tasks including payroll, reconciliation of shops takings, processing invoices, organising quotes, reconciliation of all income and expenditure, budgeting, monthly meetings with heads of departments to ensure thrifty spending and continuous income, and producing reports for the board of trustees.
‘I love the culture and feeling here at the hospice; everyone chips in to support each other. One minute I am doing payroll, and the next you’re helping the fundraising team at a Christmas wreath making event. It really does feel like everyone has the best interests of the charity at heart. I really enjoy events like the volunteers’ social summer BBQ where we as staff get to really appreciate the people who help us, by chatting to them and finding out more about them and why they support us.
‘The best part of my role is knowing that money is spent wisely and that the CEO, board of trustees and us in the finance team ensure that we are making the most out of everyone’s donations. I also thrive working with such amazing, inspirational people who genuinely want to ensure we are providing the best care for our community.
‘Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and anything to do with food – cooking it and eating it! I also enjoy running, and run alongside several friends from work. We recently took part in the Manchester Half Marathon, raising over £1,500 for the hospice; and I have undertaken the Chatsworth 10k in the past!’
