New to the job is a feature where we meet people from across the sector who have taken on a new role. If you want to take part email ben.black@bronafon.org.uk
What is your name?
Beth Nicol
Where do you work and what do you do?
Adra as Personal Assistant to the Chief Executive
Why did you choose a career in housing?
I felt that I wanted to be a part of something bigger, and join an organisation invested in making a real difference to people’s lives. In my opinion, there are few things more important than having a safe, secure home of your own and if I can play a small part in helping people attain that, then I’ll be happy.
What is the most important thing you have learned since starting your career in housing?
That there is a lot more to the housing sector than meets the eye! There is so much to learn and so many aspects of the sector I hadn’t considered, which makes the job both challenging and interesting.
What advice would you give someone applying for a job in housing?
Do your research – visit as many housing associations’ websites as possible and read up on what they do and how they do it. You’ll be surprised at how many people’s lives are touched by housing associations and the work that they undertake.
Where would you be working, if not in housing?
I have always loved the written word, and have a degree in Literature and Creative Writing, so I could see myself working as an editor or a copywriter.
What motivates you?
A challenge – it’s always good to have something to work towards and to keep the brain cells active!
What do you do to relax?
I love to read; I dabble in a bit of creative writing now and again; I love my music and am a bit of a film fanatic. I also love walking, especially exploring the mountains.
Proudest moment?
Apart from when my children were born, it would have to be when I graduated with First-Class honours. I had taken on a part-time degree later on in life and was working full-time whilst also bringing up my young family, so it was quite an achievement. My parents were still alive then and were both immensely proud, so the photos I have of that day are really special to me.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I interrupted TV presenter Gethin Jones whilst he was speaking to Warren Gatland at an awards ceremony in Cardiff, so that I could ask Mr Gatland to pose for a photo with some fans from Antur Waunfawr! At the time, it just seemed like too good an opportunity to miss but, looking back at it now, it makes me cringe!
What was the last film you watched and how did you rate it?
Yesterday, directed by Danny Boyle. I grew up listening to the Beatles (my family are originally from Liverpool), so I loved it – it was funny and just a little bit sad in parts too.