In this week's Chief Encounter's Q&A Morag Arnot, executive director at the Winning Scotland Foundation, explains that most of the time she is at least thinking about work
How many hours do you normally work in a week?
Depends how you define work, I’m either in the office or out and about to see things, meet partners or donors around 40 hours a week but I’m probably thinking about solving any issues, new ideas or better ways of doing things most of the time.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
My job is a huge privilege through the people I meet and work with and working together to help make a real difference to the way children are supported and inspired to be their personal best.
Why do you work in the third sector?
Initially because I was asked to, but having got involved I like the informality, passion and creativity that makes you feel anything is possible.
I have never really been into admiration from afar, even as I child I didn’t have posters on the walls.
Morag Arnot
Is it better to work for a big or a small charity?
I worked in the university sector and for the Arts Council which had charitable status but I don’t think of them as charities. I do enjoy working for a small organisation but it took a bit of adjustment, I had been used to big teams to delegate to and that isn’t the case anymore.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
There have been way too many to pick just one and there are still more to come, I hope.
Who is or was your role model?
I have learned from many people I’ve worked for about leading, influencing, developing others and doing the right thing and remember how generous they were giving me their time and sharing their knowledge. I try to model them, using the strengths they helped me develop and by giving my time and attention to developing people I work with. I have never really been into admiration from afar, even as I child I didn’t have posters on the walls.
Do you take part in any sports?
Yes, I’m just about to go skiing and my present obsession is my yoga practice. I love to run but my hips and knees aren’t as keen as they used to be.
If you could give one piece of advice what would it be?
Believe in yourself.
How did you end up in your job?
I started as a contractor, then part-time employee and after about three years I was asked to lead Winning Scotland Foundation initially in a temporary capacity – and have been here ever since!
Is this a step on the ladder to success or your final destination?
Depends how you define success, I’ve got lots I still want to learn and try out so I have no idea where my final destination might be.
What motivates you?
Making a difference.
What’s your favourite film and why?
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ – it questions if material success is all it’s cracked up to be.
Would your 18-year-old self be impressed with where you are now?
I think so but 18 year olds are pretty fickle.
Brian Denis Cox or Brian Edward Cox?
Definitely Brian Edward, I’ve met Brian Denis but I’ll say no more other than emphasise my choice!
