Graham Short

What first motivated you to become a trustee of WYMS?
Belief in the business. During Covid, the apprentice facility in Brighouse was closing, and I and others considered it important that it should be resurrected - as there had been a long history of apprentice support for the town and surrounding area. It would've been a shame for that to disappear.

What do you feel makes WYMS an important organisation to support?
WYMS is independent of public or educational control - so it can define it's own role to suit the local community.

How does your professional background help you contribute to the charity/company goals?

I have a background in company management especially in finance and operations so I can help set the foundations of the organisation so the CEO and his staff can work closely with local businesses.

What do you find most rewarding about being a trustee?

Seeing the collaboration between WYMS and local businesses to provide training and support to employees in different areas including apprenticeships.

How do you think the Board helps shape the future direction of WYMS?
There is a vast depth of experience in the Board members across many disciplines and sectors, which is invaluable when helping to define the strategy with the Management Team.

What impact do you hope to make through your involvement as a trustee?

I hope to provide support and direction to the Management Team so they can flourish and enjoy their roles.

What would you say to someone considering becoming a trustee for a local charity?
Its very rewarding and a provides a different view to how businesses interact with charities and public bodies which is not normally experienced in business life.