Our new Business Manager, Aliya Anwar has come full circle as she returns to Home-Start Bradford District after 16 years of working within the charity sector.
Aliya understands the invaluable service that our volunteers offer more than most as she once was a Home-Start Bradford volunteer!
We caught up with Aliya to find out more about her hopes and vision for her new role.
Why did the Home-Start Bradford District role appeal to you?
I have been on the other end of the spectrum, where I volunteered for Home-Start Bradford 16 years ago, which is partly the reason why the role appealed to me.
I would like to make a positive impact to a charity that dedicates its staff and volunteers to make positivity within the community. The role aligns with my experience and skills. I am excited in being part and leading a team to achieve its goals and outcomes.
What does the Business Manager role involve?
Overseeing the day-to-day operations, co-leading with Christine, the Operations Manager. Managing financial resources which include payroll, budgeting, and reporting. Meeting regulations with compliance. Also, supporting staff with recruitment, training, and performance management.
What are you most looking forward to?
I am excited about making a positive impact and having an opportunity to contribute to improving lives of vulnerable families. I’m eager to work with a wonderful team, of staff and volunteers to support
What do you want to ‘hit the ground running with’?
I would like to focus on engaging with staff and assess their needs to then contribute to their development needs. I want to build strong relationships with key stakeholders, reviewing the current financial plans to ensure we have sustainability.
I am also excited to contribute to the strategic planning, ensuring that the risk and compliance maintain a high standard.
What experience do you bring to the role?
I have worked with the charity sector since 2009. From my past roles and experiences, I bring a diverse skill set that will be valuable to the Business Manager’s role at Home-Start Bradford District.
When I worked within this sector as a Befriending Co-ordinator, I was managing the day-to-day operations, co ordinating volunteers, and ensured the smooth running of processes.
Having the finance experience has equipped me with the financial management, budgeting, and reporting.
As I volunteered with Home-Start Bradford, I also understand how pivotal their role is to the continued support to Bradford families and how vital it is that we nurture them and develop their skills too.
It’s the skills and knowledge that I gained as a volunteer, that has drawn me back into a role and a sector that I care about and I am very passionate about delivering a rewarding service.
