In conversation with your Bucks and Milton Keynes IoD branch ambassadors Suzanne Hurndall

Hi Suzanne, how long have you been a member of the IoD?

I joined as an Advanced Member in 2019 and I joined the Bucks and MK committee as an ambassador last week.  My role as Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion is about sharing my knowledge on how businesses can create an inclusive environment and practices where employees can be themselves, are valued for their differences, and are supported to work at their best.

Fresh into the role, that’s great, thanks for taking it on! What one thing do you hope to achieve in it?

I would like to support other directors.  I have a desire to give back to my community, and I would like to be a recognisable face and voice in the region to support members from start-ups and scale-ups and other exciting enterprises.

What prompted you join the IoD?

I consider myself an innovator and blue-sky thinker, have a track record in senior leadership, and I feel this will be a great fit from my understanding of the ethos of the IoD.

What benefits have you seen from being a member of the IoD?

I have seen and experienced the support IoD members receive and the way people are signposted to the service that best suits their need. I feel the IoD proactively engages IoD members and potential new members by sharing positive business stories and successes.

What’s your favourite way to answer the question “What do you do?”

I wear a number of different hats. I’m business leader, I specialise in outsourced HR, I’m a NED supporting leaders with strategy. I head up a Respect for People initiative, designed to promote and support organisations in driving dignity and respect in the workplace and I consult third sector organisations who want to reduce their cost and improve their operational efficiency.

When you’re not working, what would we find you doing?

I’m love to cook, Master Chef would be a dream come true.

What is your dream holiday?

The world is full of many beautiful, countries, as long as I was sharing the adventure with my husband. I would be happy anywhere.

What’s your hidden talent?

I think that’s yet to be discovered…

If you could give your 18 year old self some advice, what would it be?

Trust your instincts.  It’s okay to be unsure about your purpose in life, take a leap of faith in yourself and stop comparing yourself to others. Value relationships not things.

Thank you Suzanne.  Next time, we’ll be meeting Rachel Dempers, our Membership Officer.  See you then.