Member Spotlight: Mandy Parkinson, Head of Business & Public Engagement, Manchester Metropolitan University

Each week we get to know one of our members slightly better.  This week we find out more about Mandy Parkinson, Head of Business & Public Engagement, Manchester Metropolitan University

1. Favourite quote or saying

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain” (Vivian Greene)

2. Career highlight

Heading up the Business School’s, Centre for Enterprise at MMU, it’s great to see the work we do with SMEs go from strength to strength.

3. Why do you love pro-manchester?

pro-manchester is a great insight into the needs of the business community in Greater Manchester and is helping to bridge the gap between private and public sector, something that will be key post-COVID.

4. What are you reading at the moment?

Re-reading the Handmaids Tale

5. What are you watching at the moment?

Just finished Money Heist, which was fantastic, and I am eagerly awaiting the next series now! I’ve also started watching Sons of Anarchy and am completely addicted.

6. Favourite meeting place in Manchester

The Refuge is great for meetings, I also love Dukes 92 and popping to the Hatch on Oxford Road after work with the team.

7. Favourite lockdown activity

Re-realising that I’ve got some beautiful countryside on my doorstep and taking advantage of the opportunity to take my daily exercise around the reservoir

8. Most creative meal that you cook

Anyone who knows me well, will know that I am not known for my cooking abilities, however, my daughter informs me that I make the best Greek salad and mozzeralla fries.

9. Most creative thing you’ve seen on a video call during the lockdown

My son’s floating head while on a Board meeting, I couldn’t see his head above the door behind me but colleagues on the call were highly amused (he hadn’t realised I was on a call and popped his head over the door to ask a question)

10. Most mundane task you’ve completed since being in lockdown

DIY! I have become DIY obsessed and every room in the house has had a makeover – not sure what to do next now ……

11.   What are you looking forward to doing again the most after lockdown?

Seeing friends and family and then retail therapy! I can’t wait to go back to shops and have a day and out shopping in Manchester with my friends and lunch in one of the many fab restaurants!