What’s the first thing you do in the morning?

A triple spin, up on to the toes, then swiftly into a sideways moonwalk.

If you could do another job, what would it be?

I have always been drawn to politics, because in politics you have the ability to change things and help others by winning the argument and bringing people with you. But the way politics has gone now, I much prefer being where I am.

What makes you happy?

Italian coastlines in the sunshine.

What do you want to achieve in this field (main ambition)?

I want to help turn this charity into a household name.

What is your favourite hat?

Fedora.

Who inspires you?

The late Charles Kennedy.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Suddenly and shockingly losing my life partner, last year.

Why did you choose your profession?

This profession is essentially about enabling people who have been affected by, or who are angry about, an injustice to turn those feelings into something which can do good and make a difference. In the charity sector, we are nothing without the volunteers and activists and supporters who won’t take no for an answer, who will carry on fighting until things change and who remind us, every day, that this is not ‘just a job’. This is about people’s lives. It’s a privilege to be a part of this.