Before joining Smile Together, I studied Business Management at Lancaster University, and then worked as a Business Development Officer at Topan Fencing in Liskeard. When I joined Smile Together in 2022, I didn’t have any formal project management experience so the business supported me to complete a DSDM Project Management course, which gave me a solid framework for how to plan and deliver projects. The course was online, lasted six months, and included both theory and practical tasks that I could apply directly to my role.
In August 2024, I moved into the Project Manager position. Alongside that transition, Smile Together enrolled me onto an Aspiring Leaders course with colleagues from across the organisation, and I’m now taking part in an internal leadership development programme that’s more tailored to our business. I’m also about to begin my IOSH Managing Safely training to support the health and safety aspects of project delivery.
My job is to oversee the planning, launch and completion of projects within strict timeframes and budgets. I manage projects that span all departments, acting as a key link between external contractors, internal teams, and senior leaders.
Some recent projects I’ve worked on include:
- The build and opening of Keast Mews Dental Centre
- Overseeing the refurbishment of our mobile dental unit
- Launching new internal software’s to streamline operations
- Setting up our corporate and clinical risk registers
- Managing site visits and liaising with contractors across multiple locations
I really enjoy the variety of the role — no two days are the same. Each project brings something different and often requires a tailored approach. I thrive on the challenge of adapting quickly, scoping out what each team needs, and keeping everything moving, especially when facing tight deadlines or unexpected issues. It keeps me busy — and keeps me learning.
One of my favourite things about working at Smile Together is you can get involved in lots of different opportunities outside of your day-to-day role. So I’ve been fortunate to represent Smile Together at the British Dental Association (BDA) national conference twice, and I also sit on our Shareholder Impact Board (SIB) as an elected representative. It’s great to have a voice in how the company evolves and ensure all colleagues are heard. Through SIB, I attended the Employee Ownership Association conference, which gave me a broader perspective on what it means to be an employee-owned business. And last year, I was proud to be shortlisted for the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce’s 30 Under 30 Awards.
I’ve also taken part in volunteering opportunities, including:
- Tree planting with our environmental partners, Plant One
- Supporting our outreach clinics for fishermen at Cornish harboursides — a great way to see how Smile Together operates beyond the office and connect with our mission
If you’re thinking of joining Smile Together, my advice would be to take every opportunity you can. There are so many ways to get involved, develop your skills, and progress your career here — whether that’s through formal training, leadership development, project work, or volunteering.
It’s a workplace where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is supported, and you’re encouraged to make a real impact — not just in your role, but in the community too.
