Andrew Furzer's successful transition to SWWFL
Category: Success Stories
Publish date: 03/01/2023
South West Wildlife Fundraising Ltd (SWWFL) represent our Wildlife Trusts across Avon, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Gwent, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Herefordshire, Somerset, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. Membership provides Wildlife Trusts with vital income and a strong voice to protect our threatened wildlife and influence public policy.
The exciting Membership Recruiter role involves engaging with the public at a range of pre-booked venues, shows and events, working to recruit new members and secure long-term donations. Through this role, you can make a real and lasting impact to local wildlife and wild places.
We're open to applications from a range of candidates, whether you have direct experience in sales or fundraising, are looking for a career change or even a new challenge in retirement.
You can choose between a permanent contract or a flexible zero-hours arrangement. So, if you have good verbal communication skills, can build relationships, and are passionate about making a positive difference, we want to hear from you!
Andrew has applied his “love of all things wildlife” through his work as a Membership Recruiter for SWWFL since 2016 and shares his story here:
Tell us about your time in Service
"I enlisted in 1978 and after undergoing my basic training at Winchester I was encouraged to take a commission and I passed out from RMA Sandhurst in April 1980. I enjoyed being a Platoon Commander and particularly a Company Commander commanding roughly 220 troops where I worked with soldiers of all ranks. In 1999 I was transferred to RARO but I was never active again.
"I was able to travel outside of the UK and one of the great opportunities was deploying to Central America as a Platoon Commander where I was attached to The Gordon Highlanders and worked/trained alongside 22 SAS.
"I enjoyed various training appointments running cadres with a small, dedicated and experienced team of SNCOs and NCOs. My best experience was commanding the Phase 1 recruit cadres for two years, where I was involved in finding a solution to retention issues within the reserve forces.
"I was a big supporter of the army cadets and supported them as often as I could.
"My service was mainly as a reservist, however I was able to dedicate an almost full-time commitment as required. This enabled me to train, study and develop a civilian career in business and marketing. On retirement I joined SWWFL through my compassion for Dorset Wildlife Trust and the work they do."
Which aspects of Service life did you enjoy the most?
"I enjoyed being part of a disciplined organisation, working alongside colleagues of all ranks who had amazing commitment, experience and a great sense of humour. The traditions of the regiment glued us together and helped create a sense of being part of a bigger “family”. The friendships I made continue today through social media and reunions."
Tell us a little about your current job and what it entails
"I joined SWWFL/DWT because of my love for all things wildlife. Although my lack of experience meant working with the public was daunting at first, it’s now the thing I enjoy most about my job.
"I made a point of learning as much as I could about wildlife, conservation, and the ethos of The Wildlife Trust - in particular the local issues faced by Dorset Wildlife Trust. I have adapted the way I work so that all my knowledge is focused on what we are doing here in Dorset, and I now personally assist Dorset Wildlife Trust at shows by giving talks and on occasion, being interviewed by the local radio.
"I quickly realised that to succeed in my role, I needed to develop my communication skills, and the biggest part of my learning curve was understanding how to listen and interact accordingly. I see my role as being PR related, engaging with both members and non-members in order to spread a positive message about Dorset Wildlife Trust at all times, and I thoroughly enjoy it!"
Did you face any challenges when settling into your job?
"My biggest challenge in the early days was working in isolation, despite previously always feeling comfortable working on my own. However, I adopted the “Improvise, adapt & overcome” military ethos and now feel great in whatever capacity I’m asked to work."
What advice would you give other Service leavers?
"It can be challenging working outside and being exposed to rain, wind and the cold, especially if engagement with the public is low. However, you’ll quickly find your way and can always continue learning by listening to the feedback provided by attendees on the day."
For further information about our organisation, the Wildlife Trust movement and what people who work for SWWFL think about us, please see our current vacancy on RightJob: Membership Recruiter - WEST/SOUTH WEST UK - £15 PER HOUR + N494460
Please direct any enquiries to ERM South West, Jo Lucas.