“I am so proud to see how the support from businesses in Cumbria in growing.”
In April 2023 we welcomed Natasha Banks to our team as a CSR and Philanthropy Specialist for Cumbria.
The 36-year-old from Penrith works with the corporate sector and major donors in Cumbria to see how they can support GNAAS and help make a positive difference in people’s lives.
We caught up with her to find out more about her role and her previous career before joining GNAAS.
Could you please explain what jobs you had prior to GNAAS?
When I left school I worked for a travel agent for a couple of years then went onto a local Building Society. I stayed at the Building Society for 15 years where I was given the opportunity to work in a range of roles and gain amazing experience.
Why did you apply for a job at GNAAS?
I’d volunteered for various charities in the past and always thought I’d love to do this as a job! I was checking the GNAAS website regularly for opportunities as I’d always been in awe of the services the charity offers, then one day I checked and the role had been posted that day so I filled in the application form straight away!
How did it feel when you were told you got the job at GNAAS?
I was super nervous, I had been in my previous role for 15 years and it was scary to step outside of my comfort zone, but I am so glad I had the confidence to, as I love my new role and the variety it brings.
Could you talk me through a typical day in your role?
Each day is so varied, which is one of the things I love.
Ultimately the main parts of my role are building relationships in the business community, sharing the GNAAS story and answering any questions which people may have about how we operate.
I spend a lot of time networking across the county, as these are great opportunities to meet and get to know people. Each week I also invite businesses who want to know more about us to the airbase in Langwathby, so they can see firsthand the difference supporting GNAAS makes.
Have there been any highlights or stand-out moments during your time at GNAAS?
This is really tricky as there is so much that I have loved being part of since I joined GNAAS.
One highlight is recently winning BECBC’s Chairty of The Year award at their 2024 awards evening which was very special. It was a privilege for the charity to have been shortlisted for an award, to then win it and be BECBC’s charity of the year 2025 is incredible and an amazing platform for us to be able to share our story from.
Overall, I am so proud to see how the support from businesses in Cumbria is growing and I’m really looking forward to seeing how relationships develop and expand in the future!
What do you like to do outside of work?
Spending time with my family and friends is really important to me outside of work, I want to make as many special memories as I can.
This year we are going to try tick off some Wainwright walks with our puppy Indie!
Share
