It wasn’t long ago that Appco UK Client Relationship Manager Isabel Montoya-Perez was working for charities in Sydney, but earlier this year she packed her bags to move to London where she’s now working with charities instead of directly for them.
Here, she tells us about how her international charity experience is proving to be a benefit in her new role liaising with UK charities and the best bits of the job.
What does your job involve?
The biggest part of my role is being a liaison between our business partners, who contract fundraisers, and our charity clients. The Appco UK team sets up the face-to face campaigns, and I work with both sides to ensure they run as effectively as possible.
Speaking to clients helps me to develop a clear understanding about their charity, and the key objectives they have for each campaign.
Getting feedback from our marketing company partners is another major part of my job. They tell me what is and isn’t working in the field, and I pass that on to clients so we can make adjustments to ensure their campaigns are the best they can be. And I work together with my colleagues at Appco UK to make sure we set up our clients’ campaigns in the most efficient, effective and engaging way.
So, what does a typical day look like for you?
It really depends on the day, but the constants are lots of emails, and lots of conversations – which is what makes it really fun.
I get the chance to speak to a lot of different people and get lots of different points of view, so every day is quite unique.
You’ve worked in charities in Australia, what’s it like being on the other side and having charities as clients?
I worked for quite a few charities and not-for-profits in Australia, including the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the University of Sydney. I think my background helps a lot in my current role because I have a clear understanding of the challenges the charities are facing. My experience of working within charities also gives me essential insights into what works well for particular charities and how we can get the most out of each campaign.
What have been the highlights for you at Appco UK so far?
And finally, how are you enjoying life in London?
I actually enjoy the cold so the summer heatwave was a challenge! Everyone keeps saying ‘you’re from Australia, you must be loving the heat’. But no, I’m pleased to see the end of the hot weather!