What role(s) do you currently hold at the RTPI?

• Senior Vice Chair (North East)
• Member of the Regional Management Board
• Member of the Regional Activities Committee
• Regional Awards Judge (2024)

Why did you decide to volunteer with the RTPI / in that role?

To gain leadership experience and meet/work with a wide range of public and private sector planners in advocating for our profession.

What achievement are you most proud of from your volunteering with the RTPI?

I have had an extensive range of opportunities since volunteering with the RTPI, but my proudest achievement is acting as Chair for the North East Young Planners committee and working with the team to arrange the Young Planners Conference (2019) in Newcastle upon Tyne.

What do you think has been the impact of this?

Attendance at the conference of around 300 planners from across the country and further afield, bringing significant attention to the planning industry and development in the North East. The conference theme was “A Sense of Place: Planning and Identity” and highlighted the importance of our role as planners in establishing a sense of belonging within the built environment. This included a series of seminars, workshops and tours which examined the impact that changes to place have on spatial identity and the way we engage with them. It also provided an opportunity to show-off some of the fantastic work being done in the region and (hopefully) inspire attendees.

What have you gained from volunteering at the RTPI?

• Extensive leadership experience
• Development of a broad regional network of planning contacts across public and private sectors
• Management experience (particularly in the earliest years of my career)
• Opportunities to arrange and speak at regional and national events

What advice would you give to someone considering volunteering at the RTPI?

I very highly recommend volunteering with the RTPI; it offers unparalleled opportunities to advocate for our profession and work with other planners from across the country. For anyone considering volunteering, speak with your regional co-ordinator or Chair to see what opportunities may be available.