Team talk with Clare Cooper

This month we speak to our not-so new Learning & Development specialist, Clare, about how she is supporting the Victory team and bringing the best out in people. Here we find out about her years of varying industry experience, what she gets up to in her free time and what she loves about Victory…

1. How did you end up in the leisure home industry?

I started in the leisure home industry as a production apprentice way back in 1996 – where have the years gone? I worked my way through production and was given the opportunity to work in the production offices within Bill Of Materials (BOMs). From there, I worked in supply chain and was there for 10 years. I also worked for the National Caravan Council (NCC) so it’s safe to say I’ve got a pretty good understanding of the industry at large!

2. What brought you to Victory? 

I'd finished my teaching degree and felt I was ready to come back into the industry. I was fortunate enough to be approached by while working at another manufacturer and I was offered a very unique role that was a first for Victory. It's meant that I’ve been able to shape the Learning & Development role how I see fit and it’s a real privilege.

3. What are you most looking forward to in your new role?

I’m looking forward to developing people in every corner of the business. Whether that’s on the production line, or in the offices, I’m excited to support people to progress further, both personally and in their professional lives.

4. What’s your favourite Victory home and why?

I’m a huge fan of what’s new for 2024 - especially the Kahlo! It's so unique, and really stands apart in our product range. I can’t wait to hear and see what people have to say about it when it launches at The Great Holiday Home Show in Harrogate.

5. What are your biggest challenges in Learning & Development and how do you overcome them?  

Giving people the confidence to realise that it's never too late to study. I think some people have worries or fears from their school days but it's not the same. This time around, you're in charge of your learning path. People always come out of their training feeling really good about themselves.

6. How has Learning & Development changed over the years?

L&D was always seen as something that took place outside the workplace. Now, it's becoming more important that we invest in our people and take the time to do it within the workplace. Finding time can be an issue but I’ve always reminded people training often fixes the issues that take up valuable time! Fundamentally it develops people and makes for a more efficient (and happier) workplace.

7. What motivates you in your role?

Seeing others doing well and progressing. It sounds cliché, but I’ve already reached the end of my learning journey and worked hard to be where I want to be. I use myself as an example to give others self belief - if I can do it, anyone can!

8. What’s the best piece of advice you can give to someone looking to develop in their role?

Have confidence in your ability and don’t say you can’t do it or talk yourself out of it. Don’t worry about the ‘learning’ terminology, it’s never as hard as you think!

9. What do you do in your spare time?

I do a lot of hiking – I love a challenge and last year I did the National Three Peaks and the Lyke Wake Walk, which is 42 miles! Anywhere I can lace up my hiking boots around the UK, I'm there!

10. Would you rather be invisible or able to read minds?

I’d love to be able to read minds - when I’m teaching, I’d be able to know whether or not they have a good understanding of what is being taught, as well as whether they’re switching off!