As the work NGI delivers diversifies with the changing needs of the region, we continue to grow our talented team to support projects that are dedicated to making a lasting social and economic impact.
Of course, the benefits of bringing on young people and recent graduates are widely known, from their fresh and innovative ideas to providing new skills, but in an organisation like our own, they are bringing in a new perspective on our region and what it is that will make it an outstanding destination for future generations.
Over the past two months, we have welcomed Anna Kerr, Curtis Wake and Liz Laurent to the team who have hit the ground running, already making real impact on projects across the organisation.
Liz joined us in August as Research Executive having completed a Politics bachelor’s degree at Newcastle University where she also gained experience working with Youth Focus North East conducting research for the charity which aims to improve the lives of young people in the North East. With first-hand experience in hospitality, having worked at the Ramada Encore hotel and in the café, One Kitchen & Social, Liz joins us with a real understanding of what makes tourism and hospitality in Newcastle so special.
Of joining NGI, Liz said: “I knew I wanted to take part in meaningful work, and I have certainly found that here. Research is a key part of visualising issues and scoping out potential growth for an area that has so much to offer, and I am so grateful to be a part of a team that provides key information for the benefit of Newcastle and Gateshead. Experiencing Newcastle as someone who grew up in the United States, I want other people to be as excited about the area as I am because there is so much to love.”
With a background as a waitress and bartender as well as a Politics and German degree from Newcastle University in 2022, Anna found her time in hospitality instrumental to the development of her work ethic and love for Newcastle.
Anna said: “The idea of being part of a team which empowers and elevates the North East on both a national and international stage was my greatest incentive in applying to join NGI. I believe our region is one of the best places to work, live and visit in the world and my job ensures that I get to directly contribute to its growth and development.”
As Project Assistant, Anna’s scope of work is broad and she will be working across various areas of NGI’s remit, liaising with partners and stakeholders and working closely with Head of Head of Strategic Partnerships and Programmes, Alys Dunn.
Having graduated with a degree in Business and Marketing Management, Curtis joins us as Marketing & Digital Assistant supporting NGI’s marketing activity and maintaining and creating digital assets for the organisation.
Curtis said: “The chance to apply myself in a digital marketing capacity to benefit people in my home region was a fantastic opportunity that I didn’t want to miss.”
We’re extremely excited to support Anna, Curtis and Liz at the start of their flourishing careers and see how their work begins to have real life impact on the region.