Thrive™ Programme Facilitators

Source: https://warwick.ac.uk/services/skills/personaldevelopment/thrive_facilitators/ Parent: https://warwick.ac.uk/services/skills/

Find out more about our facilitators who will support you on your Thrive™ Personal Development Programme journey.

If you work at Warwick, and wish to express interest in being trained as a facilitator, please email to register your interest. All facilitators are in place for 2025-26 delivery.

Sarah Bennett

About Sarah

I am passionate about personal development and am proud of what we have achieved so far with theThrive™programme! I bring experience from my different roles - as a Training Consultant, as a Careers Advisor and as a committed lifelong learner - to the ongoing development of this exciting new programme, co-created with students to support their confidence, resilience and agency. The common thread throughout my career has been helping others to fulfil their potential and finding purpose and happiness in their lives.\ \

Curiosity and connection are key values of mine - I am inspired everyday through learning about the experiences of others; I love the power of connection to support each other to learn and grow. Building mentoring into the Thrive programme was important to me, as I know from personal experience how valuable it can be.

Outside of work, I love reading and travelling. I have two daughters, a cat, and enjoy meeting friends for long walks in the countryside.

Pierre Botcherby

About Pierre

My name is Pierre and I am a Teaching Fellow in French Studies. I’ve been at Warwick since 2017, when I started my PhD in History, and have since worked in the Doctoral College, the Community Values Education Programme, the Modern Records Centre, and SMLC. I even did my undergrad here… a certain number of years ago! I look forward to meeting participants on the programme.

Jo Bowers

About Jo

I'm Jo, and I’m thrilled to be taking part in this year's Thrive programmes. As a Widening Participation Lifecycle Officer at the University of Warwick, I oversee the Warwick Scholars Undergraduate programme and lead efforts with our partner organisation upReach who provide employability support. In my role I enjoy helping students navigate and capitalise on university life from day one through to graduation and beyond. My role in the Widening Participation team is about empowering students to make the most of every opportunity; personally, academically, and professionally; and Thrive is a brilliant catalyst for that journey.

With nearly two decades of experience working closely with young adults, I hope to bring valuable insight, experience, and a passion for helping students progress and succeed. Outside of my professional life, I’m a keen baker, enthusiastic birdwatcher, campervanner, and Labrador feeder—always on the lookout for the next adventure or perfect cake recipe.

Lucy Crittenden

About Lucy

Hi, I’m Lucy and I’m Warwick’s Careers Manager (Alumni and Central Services). I have been at Warwick since February 2024, having previously headed the careers service at Birkbeck, University of London and managed graduate recruitment for a global law firm in London.

My career path has always been driven by empowering people to achieve their potential, no matter their background, and I have run several programmes designed to support students and employees with their confidence, resilience, connections and wider employability skills.

Outside of work, I am a mum to a very adventurous 3-year-old son (who is keeping me young!) and I have re-discovered a love of ballet dancing (just don’t ask me to do any turns!)

I am really looking forward to being part of Thrive this year.

Konstantina Dee

About Konstantina

Konstantina is the Alumni Careers Manager at WBS, where she supports a diverse global alumni community through one-to-one coaching and career development activities. A regular contributor to the WBS Alumni newsletter, Konstantina authors a monthly career blog and collaborates with colleagues across the University of Warwick on a podcast series focused on career insights for international students and alumni.

With a BA from the University of Sofia and an MSc in Management Studies from the Royal Agricultural University, Konstantina has worked in UK higher education careers services since 2005. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Careers Information, Advice and Guidance from the University of Warwick, is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and a licensed Spotlight practitioner.

Clare Dixon

About Clare

As a career’s professional, former RAF Officer, and seasoned recruiter, I've actively contributed to the career development and advancement of hundreds of individuals in various stages of their careers over the last 20 years.

I am delighted to contribute my insight and expertise to Thrive at the University of Warwick, where I can share my passion for empowering women in their professional journeys. I am deeply passionate about providing women with the tools and resources to achieve their professional aspirations, especially those in typically male dominated environments.

My experience also extends beyond just the workplace; I have devoted time to voluntary work, supporting women in STEM enter the workforce, or re-enter the workforce after parental leave or other extended periods away from their specialism, in roles appropriate for their level of education and experience. This multifaceted background has equipped me with valuable insights and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of women in the professional sphere.

LaiLeng Fong

About LaiLeng

I'm passionate about empowering individuals to reach their potential.

From my “portfolio career,” I've learned that all skills are useful and transferable. The creativity I developed as an interior designer has been invaluable in shaping marketing strategies, product development, internship programmes, and more recently, the WorkReady Toolkit to support students’ work experience journey.

As a working woman with a diverse career, a parent of thriving children who have recently joined the professional world, and a trainer and mentor of personal development programmes, I draw on my experiences to inspire and support students in achieving personal growth and their definition of success. Having moved to England 32 years ago, I empathise with the unique challenges non-UK students face.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, dancing, swimming and the arts. I'm excited to support you in navigating your unique paths.

Beth Gallett

About Beth

I’ve been at Warwick since 2022, first as a student (Career Development and Coaching Studies MA) and now in the Internships, Placements, and Work Experience team. My role is focused on amplifying students' voices to ensure that everyone, not just the most vocal, get to have their say.

I’m passionate about ensuring that all students can develop beyond their academic knowledge and gain a greater understanding of their values and what success means to them. Thrive is a fantastic opportunity for students to have these conversations and I’m excited to be part of the team of facilitators.

Outside of work I’m an aunt to my adorable two-year-old niece, I enjoy going to the gym and reading (hobbies you can do simultaneously with an audio book), and I’m a member of an amateur improv comedy group.

Clare Halldron

About Clare

Coming soon

Sarah Jackson

About Sarah

Sarah Jackson leads the MBA & Alumni careers team at WBS, managing a team of 7 careers & leadership development professionals to empower students to reach their potential & support the strategic goals of the business school.

She is a committed, energetic, and professional Careers & Leadership Development Professional, with expertise in designing and delivering a wide range of leadership development programmes at both individual and group level from junior levels in the business to C-Suite. A seasoned executive coach, Sarah is passionate about helping people reach their potential, with experience of coaching & facilitating workshops for individuals from a number of different sectors, business areas & international cultures.

Prior to joining WBS, Sarah managed the Global Graduate Programme for IMI plc with responsibility for recruitment through to managing & developing their engineering & commercial graduates through a series of placements with the aim of producing IMI’s future business leaders. Sarah has also designed and delivered development interventions (Business leadership programme, team building sessions, graduate workshops and assessment/development centre training) to a wide range of people from graduates through to senior management.

Sarah is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers and has a BEng Hons degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sheffield University, a Diploma in Coaching from Warwick University and is a licensed psychometric tester, fully accredited in Hogan, Spotlight, Insights, MBTI (step I &II), FIRO-B, Belbin and SHL level A and level B. She also holds an MA in Career Development & Coaching Studies from Warwick University.

Amanda Lang

About Amanda

I am Amanda, and I am really excited to be involved in the years Thrive Programme. My role at Warwick is working within the School of Engineering as their Director of Student Experience, to help create an inclusive student community.

I strongly believe in the development of students and in particular supporting the empowerment of women at Warwick. I have helped create the WP Student Network, which acts as a peer network for WP Students at Warwick and also am lucky to be one of the leads for the Inspiring Women at Warwick Staff Programme.

Out of work I like travelling and crafting (although I don’t have a favourite!) and I also am the proud owner of a black and white cavapoochon doggie

😊

Christine Lockey

About Christine

I'm Christine, I'm excited to be involved in supporting the Thrive Programme.

I am the Director of Outreach within the School of Life Sciences, and also a teaching-focused assistant professor with a background in biochemistry.

My favourite days at work are the ones where I'm able to see students succeeding, especially if the challenge has been something they weren't always sure they'd ever accomplish. I think Thrive gives students a space to build that confidence and celebrate those wins, and I'm really grateful to be a part of that.

Puja Laporte

About Puja

I’m Puja. I’ve worked across Higher Education and the Third Sector, leading on health and education research projects, particularly supporting and empowering minoritised or underserved sub-communities.

At Warwick, I’m a Programme Manager in the central Conduct and Resolution team. I support students to navigate potentially tricky topics around behaviour, conduct, and inclusion in ways that feel practical and supportive.

Giving back is really important to me. I’ve led leadership training for young women, mentored early-career professionals (especially those with limited networks), and volunteered with young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds to help them better navigate the working world.

I’m so excited to be a Thrive facilitator and I can’t wait to have thoughtful, nuanced conversations and help uplift the next generation of brilliant women.

Sophie Martucci

About Sophie

I am the Director of Academic Support at the School of Life Science at the University of Warwick. In this role I work to ensure suitable support and pastoral care provision is available for all our students - no matter who they are, where they are from or whatever experience they bring with them! I want all students to feel like the belong at Warwick and celebrate our beautiful diversity. You learn well when you feel well and I want everyone to have the opportunity to achieve their best potential.

Outside of Warwick I am first a foremost a mum to my wonderful son, but also a dog owner and a grass roots football coach! I look forward to seeing you all on the course and being part of your time here at Warwick!

Rhiannon Martyn

About Rhiannon

I came late to recognising that my experience as a female employee might be different to that of a male colleague. I was lucky to have some really good female leaders and role models to learn from and be supported by.

I’m now in a position where I want to help support women to fulfil (and exceed) their professional and personal ambitions so that luck doesn’t have to be a factor.

I feel privileged to be part of the Thrive team and I’m looking forward to meeting you 😊

Kelly Mayjonade-Christy

About Kelly

Hi everyone! I'm Kelly and I'm an Assistant Professor in French Studies in the SMLC.

I’m deeply committed to inclusive education and work to design and deliver French language and culture modules, mentor students and colleagues, and collaborate across departments to foster a diverse and supportive learning environment. I also serve as the SMLC Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Chair, where I support and manage the departmental student networks, helping our students to build community and confidence.

This year, I will be leading the delivery of the Thrive programme within the SMLC in collaboration with my colleagues Pierre and Orla. I am very much looking forward to meeting our new participants and supporting them on their journey through the programme, as we work together to foster a sense of belonging, purpose, and personal growth.

Marion Patel

About Marion

I’m a Placement Officer (and mum, friend, partner, baker, gardener, cat-owner, etc).

Engaging with personal/professional development programmes has played an important part in my professional journey.

I am so pleased that through initiatives like Thrive I get to bring together the skills of my ‘day job’ (working with, and developing people) with the ability to pass on and pay forward the benefits of personal and professional growth opportunities.

Jo Pearson

About Jo

I joined Warwick in 2022 as a Senior Careers Consultant, and I currently work with the School of Life Sciences and WMG to embed employability in the curriculum and support students with their career planning and decision making.

As a Career Development Professional and a Strengths Practitioner, I enjoy using my guidance skills to facilitate the professional and personal development of students and colleagues.

In my role at the university, and as part of my wider professional network, I value the importance of connections and learning from the experiences of others. Collaboration and relationship building are a big part of my practice.

Outside of work, I am a keen performer and volunteer as Vice Chair of a local musical theatre company committee to produce regular choir concerts and fully staged musicals. I am a mum to two (almost) grown up children and a mischievous cat.

Hilary Riseley

About Hilary

Hi everyone, I’m Hilary, Careers Manager for Undergraduates at WBS.

I have worked in HE Careers for over 10 years and prior to that I worked in HR and Recruitment in Legal, Financial Services and HE sector.

I am passionate about helping people to develop their full potential so I am excited to be involved in the Thrive programme. In my experience, I have seen many people hold themselves back and underestimate their abilities, so I am driven to help people to overcome barriers (real or perceived), reach their desired goals and become their authentic self.

Outside of work, I love singing, dancing, spending time with my little girl and enjoying good coffee.

Fiona Robertson

About Fiona

I have been at Warwick since 2018 and am currently working in the Information and Digital Group as a Junior Delivery Manager.

I am passionate about women’s development and bridging the gap between men and women. I have been lucky enough to participate in development programmes which have improved my confidence and career prospects and now I’m excited to have the opportunity to pay it forward.

Outside of Warwick, I am a hypnobirthing and antenatal teacher which gives me the opportunity to support pregnant women and their partners at a very special time in their lives.

I am also a busy mum of two small children and enjoy baking, reading and dancing when I get chance.

Sabath Shazia

About Sabath

Sabath is an enthusiastic, motivated, and confident professional with a proven track record of determination and commitment across various roles in the Higher Education (HE) sector.

With over 14 years of volunteering experience, both locally and internationally, she is deeply passionate about supporting the community through diverse projects and fundraising initiatives, often in collaboration with faith-based organisations.

Her strengths in organisation, communication, and problem-solving are evident in her current role, where she works closely with various stakeholders to deliver impactful results. Sabath also channels her creativity into producing digital content that highlights the philanthropic contributions shaping scholars' futures and career paths.

With a bold vision for driving positive change, she continues to lead multiple projects in her hometown and the Midlands, where she now lives, focusing on empowering Muslim women in business, enterprise, and startups. Sabath is passionate about helping these women build confidence, excel in their endeavours, and become leaders within their communities.

Her career is anchored in strong project management skills, strategic planning, and workshop facilitation. Sabath’s early achievements include being a radio presenter in her 20s and raising millions for various charities. These efforts led to her being recognised as the first Muslim young woman to receive the Young People of the Year award at age 20, followed by additional awards and nominations in the Luton community.

She has continued to host events and confidence-building workshops for young women, all while managing a long-term health condition. In 2015, she was honoured with an invitation to Her Majesty’s the Queen Garden Tea Party at Buckingham Palace in recognition of her contributions to community projects. More recently, Sabath was nominated for the ‘Midland Impact Award’ by the Ernst & Young Foundation.

In her free time, she enjoys nature walks, painting, travelling, and is driven by her passion for empowering women and aiming to making a difference in many lives.

Melanie Twigger

About Melanie

Hello, my name is Mel and I work in the Undergraduate Team within the Business School at Warwick as a Senior Project Coordinator. My involvement in the Thrive programme fills me with enthusiasm, as it aligns perfectly with my commitment to student development.

In my role at Warwick, I support undergraduate students from Warwick Business School, in particular those from a Widening Participation background, to help build an inclusive community.

I’m passionate about fostering student growth, especially when developing their potential by building confidence, resilience and connections!

Outside of work I enjoy running (slowly) cycling (a bit faster but not much!) and reading (my top tip is never watch a film based on a favourite book, they never do them justice). To unwind, I take my young yellow Labrador on long walks.

I’m very much looking forward to meeting you all.

Donna Walker

About Donna

My name is Donna and I work as a Careers Coach with FTMBA Students in Warwick Business School. I love my role as I support students to gain their dream job! This involves careers coaching and workshops on crafting your CV, interview technique and networking skills. However, we also support students with building resilience and confidence to help them succeed in the workplace. I am looking forward to contributing to the Thrive Programme and meeting you all. In my spare time I love reading (and go to a monthly book club), running (short distances) and visiting National Trust properties (especially the tea room!).

Orla Whelan-Davis

About Orla

Hi everyone, my name is Orla, and I have been at University of Warwick for 8 years across Foundation Studies, Economics and the School of Modern Languages and Cultures, bringing considerable experience working with different nationalities and cultures.

I have always worked in Education, as a teacher of Modern Languages at primary and secondary levels, a Careers Manager in schools and HE and currently Widening Participation Manager in the SMLC. I am passionate about social mobility and encouraging empowerment, progression and success with the students I work with.

As a mother to 3 children, 2 of whom have now entered the workforce, I have been privileged to witness their transition to the professional world so have some first-hand information on this!

Last year I completed the Advance HE Aurora programme on female leadership and personal development and I am delighted to join Thrive as a facilitator to share all of my experience and insights with the wonderful students at Warwick.

Outside of work I love to read, sing and go to the theatre, currently reading “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

Kate Whiston

About Kate

I lead on Warwick’s partnerships with organisations that co-fund scholarships for international students. One scheme I am particularly proud to work on is the Women in STEM scholarship programme in conjunction with the British Council. This enables excellent early stage or aspiring female scientists to undertake a master’s degree whilst also giving them the necessary skills and tools to thrive in male dominated industries and to support the young women following in their footsteps.

I started to explore coaching and mentoring during the pandemic and found it transformative. I’m keen to use these skills to support women to realise their professional and personal ambitions and am looking forward to meeting Thrive participants with goals and challenges to overcome.

Outside of work I’m a primary school governor, keen cook and greyhound servant.

Rich Wilcock

About Rich

Hello, I’m Rich and I’m a Careers Consultant for MBA students in the Business School, here at Warwick. I joined the University recently in July 2025, and have thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the wonderful students and staff, as well as exploring Warwick’s amazing campus. Prior to working here, I was a senior manager within the Careers Service at the University of Leicester, and going further back held recruitment roles for Experian, Barclays and Toyota.

My career path has followed my passion for development and empowerment. It is a privilege to help others achieve their potential and aspirations, and I have thoroughly enjoyed leading and contributing to numerous personal and professional development programmes and coaching and mentoring schemes. I’m approachable, encouraging, and positive, and absolutely delighted to be part of Thrive.

When not working I enjoy trying to keep up with my son, watching sports and keeping as fit and active as possible. I’m also a keen reader and even keener Netflix binge watcher!

Samantha Wilson-Thain

About Samantha

Director of Student Experience – School of Life Sciences

In my home life, I am a Mum of two boys, one cat and three fish: an animal lover and tea drinker.

I’m passionate about creating inclusive, empowering environments where students can thrive—both academically and personally. My career has spanned teaching-focused roles and leadership in student experience, always with a commitment to equity, wellbeing, and belonging.

As Director of Student Experience, I work across departments to enhance the student journey, ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and able to succeed. I’m especially interested in co-creation, inclusive pedagogy, and embedding student voice into meaningful change.

Beyond my formal role, I’ve mentored early-career educators, facilitated workshops on inclusive practice, and contributed to sector-wide conversations around student wellbeing and engagement.

I’m excited to be part of Thrive, and I look forward to connecting with brilliant women across the university—sharing stories, building confidence, and championing each other’s growth.

Nuo Xu

About Nuo

Nuo Xu is the Careers Manager for the FTMBAs at the Warwick Business School. She worked in the corporate finance sector and commodity hedging projects for seven years. Since 2014, her career aspiration has been moving towards student development and training. Coaching and supporting people to reach their full potential is Nuo’s passion. Her key areas of coaching experience are coaching interview skills, improving job applications, and supporting clients to develop skills for their careers. Nuo also supports clients to become aware of their decisions around developing careers to achieve their goals.