Meet the Team - Charlotte Goodwill Operational Team / Chief Executive Officer
Join us to catch up with Charlotte and learn a bit more about what makes her tick...
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Usually, I kick off work-related discussions with "I'm the CEO of the ITP", but I’m not going to do that here, I want to be as real as possible!
First and foremost, I take immense pride in being a mum to a beautiful 9-year-old daughter and a foster parent to my very grown up 13-year-old son. I also have two dogs, with whom most people will tell you that I also refer to them as my children. I’m lucky to have a large and supportive family who keep me grounded and grateful!
My journey has been anything but conventional. School and college weren't exactly my forte, but once I had my daughter, I wanted to do more so enrolled with Open University and graduated 2 years ago with a 1st class honours degree. I packed my bags and left home at 19, dove into marriage and motherhood early, and now? Well, I find myself steering the ship at ITP – it’s crazy really.
As for my guilty pleasures, you'll often find me reaching for a Diet Coke or a cup of tea, though my relationship with chocolate is not ideal! Do I strive for those 10,000 steps a day? Let's just say it's a work in progress.
When it comes to relaxing and self-care, I’m not very good at that. However, I'm all about a good scare with a horror movie. And crime dramas? Absolutely hooked!
Maths may not be my strong suit, but give me a blank page and a pen, and ask me to do something creative, then I’m in! DIY projects and cooking are my thing, and you'll rarely catch me without my favourite pair of boots.
What led you to join the ITP?
If I claimed it was the industry or apprenticeships that drew me in, I'd be lying. Truth is, at the time, I wasn't even aware of either. It was actually, Crissi, who was the former CEO and a close friend outside of work, who was the reason for me joining. I was really struggling to find my path and felt miserable in my previous job. I've always had a solid work ethic and genuinely enjoyed working. But back then, I was lost and felt like my options were limited. Then, Crissi offered me the role of Apprenticeship Scheme Manager back in 2017, and without hesitation, I grabbed it with both hands. The rest, as they say, is history – and I wouldn't change a thing!
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
In my role as CEO, no two days are alike so there isn’t such thing as a ‘typical’ day in my life. I have a multitude of responsibilities, including setting strategic direction, overseeing daily operations, managing finances, driving the organisations culture, looking after relationships with stakeholders, driving innovation and growth, representing the views of our members and the wider industry at events, maintaining competitiveness, and ensuring the well-being of the team.
Every day there are new challenges and opportunities, and I owe our ability to tackle them to the hard work of our team who help to make things happen!
What Motivates you?
My children are my motivation every day. But I'm also driven by the desire to create positive change, to advocate for inclusivity and opportunities for individuals who, like me at one point, may have been overlooked.
My team is my backbone, and I'm committed to their development and success, along with that of our members and apprentices.
Can you share a highlight or accomplishment from your career that you’re particularly proud of?
There isn't just one standout moment, so I'll share a few highlights. Firstly, stepping into the role of CEO was a dream I never imagined, and I'm grateful for the chance to make a difference and the mentoring and coaching I received to get here. Secondly, overcoming my fears and addressing hundreds of people at our annual dinner was a personal triumph I never saw coming.
Lastly, receiving three awards in 2023 was a massive achievement for both the ITP and our team, that was well worth celebrating!
What’s your favourite thing about working at the ITP?
Without a doubt, my favourite part about working at the ITP is our people and our unwavering commitment to our values.
Our genuine care for both our industry and the individuals who contribute to it is at the core of everything we do.
Every member of our team is dedicated to making a positive impact, and it's amazing to witness the collective effort we put forth each day.
The difference we make together continues to WOW me and it’s a constant reminder of the power of collaboration and shared purpose.
If you did not work in this industry, what field would you pursue?
It would have most definitely have been psychology. Becoming a psychologist was my dream for as long as I can remember, and in some ways, it still is, it's become a fundamental part of who I am. Those close to me often see me as the "Counsellor" or "Sounding Board," of the group which I love. What fascinates me most are the complexities of the human brain, how our experiences shape our thoughts and behaviours, and the depths of human emotion. Each interaction, every story shared, offers a fresh perspective, adding another piece to the puzzle of understanding one another.
I feel strongly about seeing things from every person's perspective. I guess that’s why I’m so passionate about driving meaningful and impactful change for others.
What’s the weirdest food combination that you enjoy?
Sadly, I’m not very adventurous with food. The weirdest I'll go is pasta in a bowl of vegetable stock with cheese!
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
TEA! OR DIET COKE. You don’t have to ask me twice!
Tell us a joke!
Never ask me this question because it just won’t end well!