How did you first come to work for Rockley?
I went to Plumpton Agriculture College and studied Outdoor Adventure Sports. As part of the course we had to complete work experience in the industry - Rockley came in and interviewed us and I was lucky enough to be offered a job for the summer.
How long you have worked for Rockley?
I have worked for Rockley for nearly 10 years, since 2011. Throughout this time I have had the opportunity to work at all three of the centres in France. Three seasons at AzuRivage, two at Le Lac and this is now going to be my third at La Rive. I also did a year and a half at Rockley Point in the UK.
What have you achieved during your time with us Rockley?
So much! All my sailing and windsurfing qualifications for a starter, then becoming an RYA Senior Instructor and then Activities Manager. The real highlight has been becoming part of the Rockley family, meeting so many different people and gaining some friends for life. It's all helped me become the person that I am today and is the reason why I am confident in my new role as Centre Manager.
You did a season in the UK. Why and how did this differ to working in France?
After working in France for a number of years, I felt that I needed a change and wanted to learn more as an Instructor. So, I decided to stay in the UK for 2018 and work at Rockley's flagship centre in Poole. This was such a good decision for me. Working under the fantastic management team of Straw and Liz, I leant so much. It was a completely different experience and one that benefited me hugely.
Last year you did a season in Bermuda. Why did you leave Rockley and then decide to return?
After working for the company for eight years, the opportunity to work in Bermuda as Head of Operations and Chief Instructor came up. It's a place that is very close to my heart as I have family out there and have been going there since a young age. The role had a lot more responsibility than I’d previously had. This included getting the centre up to RYA standard and gaining RYA recognition - this taught me a lot about the 'behind the scenes' running of a centre which is definitely going to help me out in my new role.
"After having two years not working out in France I cannot wait to get back out there and get stuck into this new role. It’s going to be a big change for me not being out on the water teaching everyday. But I’ll still be wearing my visor and blue nose in the office each day."
Speaking to Rockley's HR Manager, Kat Sargent, this is what she had to say of Lizzy and her new role: "Lizzy has a great understanding of the business & has knowledge and experience of working in a number of areas of the company. She has been on a massive journey with Rockley and is very much part of the family, staring at just 17 and then taking some time out last year to try something different and develop her skills. She now has the determination and drive to want to take the next step in her career and with Rockley."