Take Ten with…
10 minutes, 10 revealing questions! Get to know the United Way UK team
Name: Radhika Rajani
Role: Operations Manager
When did you join the team at United Way UK?
At the end of March 2023.
What were you doing before that and what led you to this role?
My previous sectors covered two of the three United Way pillars; health and education, so that’s really what led me to the Operations Manager role here.
Before United Way UK, I was based in a primary school working as a Programme Manager for a curriculum hub. Prior to that, I was teaching in Seoul, South Korea and working as a Business Manager for various departments within the NHS. My first job was based in Great Ormond Street Hospital, which laid a strong foundation for what I value professionally.
What does your role entail day to day?
Each day looks different depending on our operational priorities; one day I could be working on finance and management accounts and the other, implementing a new system or process. Whatever the day, you can guarantee Microsoft Excel will be involved!
What challenges do you face within the role?
As a newer member of staff, my main challenge has been around developing a detailed understanding of the organisation so that I am able to do my job to the best of my ability and keep operations running as smooth as possible. This of course comes with time and four months in, I’m still learning something new every day!
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Being able to impact communities in need. Whether it’s helping the elderly with their digital skills, or installing libraries in schools, we all work seamlessly together to make it all happen.
Tell us about the standout moments from United Way UK projects you’ve worked on
This isn’t necessarily a project but attending the international United in Purpose conference in Houston, Texas really stood out for me. At that point, I was new to the charity sector, so it was a great opportunity to absorb as much information as possible from our colleagues across the world and particularly the Europe and Middle East regional team, with whom we work with closely.
What do you love most about working at United Way UK?
I love learning from my colleagues. We are a team of six with varied experience and all talented in our own ways. We each bring something new to the table, which is great for a small organisation.
Who and/or what’s your biggest inspiration?
My dad. He was born in Blantyre, Malawi and moved to England alone, at the age of 16, to make a better life for himself and his family. He is resilient, hard-working and generous. He has taught me the value of giving back to your community from a young age – a true inspiration!
Do you have any passion projects outside of work?
I love travelling to new places, trying the local food, cooking it, and then forcing my loved ones to eat it. I have a delicious ‘fergese’ (baked Albanian cheese) recipe that I am looking forward to inflicting upon them.
Describe yourself in one word:
Resourceful.