Zoe, Lead Consultant at Lafan: a glimpse into my dynamic role
Eight months have flown by since I became a part of the vibrant Lafan team! The experience has been nothing short of exhilarating, as I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of companies and energetic organisations in North Wales and beyond.
If you’ve ever wondered what my role entails within Lafan, trust me, you’re not alone. Defining ‘Lead Consultant’ has proven to be quite the challenge! While I was pondering this, a brilliant ‘light bulb moment’ struck me. Instead of delving into an exhaustive blog that might add more confusion, how about I offer you a glimpse into a typical week in my fascinating Lafan role?
Monday: at M-SParc
The week kicks off with a trip to our virtual home at M-SParc in Gaerwen. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, meet clients (often over coffee and cake), and then convene with the Lafan team. During these team gatherings, we brainstorm, troubleshoot, and set the course for the projects at hand. This week’s agenda features discussions about 20-30 live agreements, with various team members contributing their expertise. These sessions are brilliant for learning and innovation, where each member’s perspective enriches the collective approach to problem-solving.
Tuesday: Webinars, Wisdom, and Business Efficiency
A change of pace today! We’ve been invited by the Business Department of Gwynedd Council to be a part of a live webinar, where we’ll share insights on ‘Business Efficiency through Technological or Digital Methods’. As business landscapes evolve, so do the strategies to save money and time through technology. If you’re curious, you can catch up on these engaging webinars through this link: Technoleg ar gyfer Effeithlonrwydd Busnes
Wednesday: A Day of Discovery and Community Building
Today, I’m working on a partnership with a regeneration group in Anglesey. They’ve invited our expertise to shape their future endeavours, resulting in a practical, achievable action plan. Guiding them, we explore communities in Gwynedd – Blaenau Ffestiniog and Bethesda. These unique communities offer valuable insights into different social and regeneration initiatives, each addressing their distinctive challenges and opportunities. It’s a reminder that there’s no universal solution; understanding individual communities is key to effective transformation.
Thursday: Nurturing Local Businesses and Innovation
One of my greatest joys lies in nurturing local businesses. As part of the ‘Digital Platform Scheme for Gwynedd’, Lafan is mentoring 20 businesses to amplify their digital footprint. Our team of three has shared best practices, tackled challenges, and paved the way for tailored action plans. Today, my focus is on mentoring sessions with two businesses – one in the holiday accommodation sector and the other in the local food and drink sector. We’re exploring new avenues, like leveraging tools such as Trello for task management and expanding online sales strategies.
In the afternoon, I’m working on a social enterprise venture with ‘Menter Môn’, driving the ‘NEGES@Home’ project. Our mission? To boost sales opportunities for local food and drink within the tourism sector, curating and coordinating Welsh food and drink hampers. Intrigued? Discover more about this exciting project here: Local Welsh Food & Drink Hampers – Neges@Home
Friday: A Glimpse from My Ffestiniog Office
Today, I’m immersed in my home office, overlooking the majestic Moelwyn mountains. Engaged in reports for projects spanning across Wales, I’m contributing to the Sustainable Management Scheme supported by the Welsh Government. Drawing from years of project management, I also thrive in evaluating and refining strategies. Every day at Lafan is an adventure; from managing projects and evaluating initiatives to fostering community growth, aiding businesses, and facilitating workshops I’m embracing a diverse skill set!
At Lafan, we understand that unravelling our impact can be challenging. But we’re here to help YOU and your business thrive. Our invitation is open – let’s have an informal chat. Share your challenges, and let’s explore how the Lafan team can empower you. Give us a call, and let’s plan that coffee and cake rendezvous soon!
Zoe