“Driving home, seeing the sun set over the sea, it feels like being on holiday.”
Originally from Bedford, Shaun Hindle has spent the last two years living and working in West Norfolk having relocated to join the College of West Anglia as Director of Employer Engagement. And for Shaun, who has also worked in the Midlands and Somerset, making the location where he once holidayed his home was an easy decision.
“From the moment I arrived at the College for my interview, I have been made to feel welcome. There is a real sense of belonging.”
Shaun’s path to his current role began in manufacturing before stepping into education by chance when he helped his wife out one day. After a stint teaching, Shaun moved into business development before his current role, working with local businesses.
“I work with local businesses in a number of ways, including to develop our curriculum ensuring it meet the future skills needs, support future recruitment and deliver of apprenticeships. The main aspect is connecting the business community with the College, developing the skills for the future.
“What is especially enjoyable is discovering new businesses out there. There are so many hidden gems in West Norfolk and our local companies are rightly proud of what they do.”
Shaun has found that he has been able to make a big impact in West Norfolk. Not only was he awarded Business Person of the Year for Fenland, he has also been appointed Chair of Fenland Chamber of Commerce. Shaun said: “So much has been made possible by the team around me, their constant determination and energy allows us to achieve.”
He added: “I’m excited to make the most of new opportunities. For example, we are doing some great work with our Uniformed Services. Not only are we training students through the courses, we are also recruiting ex-armed forces teaching staff creating a perfect skilled eco-system.”
For Shaun, working in West Norfolk was the perfect choice. “There is nowhere like West Norfolk. I have better work/life balance as I’m not spending so much time traveling. And it’s the community, the people, that really makes it a great place to be. West Norfolk is absolutely special.”