We spoke to James Stancombe, GISMO Programme Manager, to find out more about his role and what inspired him to join the team.
What is your role in GISMO?
I am the Programme Manager. My role is to co-ordinate with the various teams in delivering the project including the Materials Science Institute, marketing and business development in the Faculty of Science and Technology, and the Project Support Unit to ensure that we deliver a first-class experience that gives a competitive edge to firms in Cheshire and Warrington, while staying between the lines of ERDF compliance.
Describe yourself in three words.
Passionate, approachable, avoids-self-assessment
What inspired you to apply for this role?
Higher education was an area missing from my career portfolio. I had worked with the University previously as a delivery partner in the Wave 2 Growth Hubs programme and was impressed by what I saw. A former colleague who works at Lancaster University told me about the GISMO role, and it was a good test of my skills and experience.
What qualifications do you hold?
SFEDI Level 5 Certificate in Professional Business and Enterprise Support Services and a Prince 2 Practitioner Certification.
How long have you worked at Lancaster University (and in what roles)?
I joined Lancaster University in March 2020 for this role.
What do you like most about working at Lancaster University?
Colleagues are supportive and endlessly patient with my questions about how things work.
What are you most looking forward to doing on the GISMO project?
Helping to make a difference to firms in Cheshire and Warrington and achieving the project’s contracted outputs with no financial penalties.
What is your greatest/proudest achievement (in or outside work)?
My children Sam, Jack and Sarah.
What are your hobbies and interests outside work?
I photograph animals, aeroplanes and American Football.
What do you eat for breakfast most days?
Porridge.
