Meet our New Staff Members - Kirsty Allard Community and Events Fundraising Officer

• Can you tell us a little about your Background?

After I graduated from uni, I took up an events internship within the arts sector. I worked on events at Cancer Research part-time before entering my first full time events role at the Stroke Association. To broaden my experience I then took a short-term contract working on an international conference in the Netherlands and before Blesma I was working on a short-term contract for a luxury party planning company.

• How did you come to Blesma?

I missed working in a charity environment, which is something I have found to be different from every other area of events I have worked in. I am from Chelmsford and the role was exactly what I was looking for. Both my Grandad and my Uncle served in the Army so Blesma’s work resonated with me. Coming to Blesma has been the best decision I have made, everyone is lovely and it’s a great work atmosphere - everyone seems to truly care about their work. 

• Tell us about your role?

I am the Community and Events Fundraising Officer, so I work with my colleagues to manage internal events, including the Remembrance 11K and the upcoming Pick Your Peak challenge, as well as third party events such as the London Marathon, Mount Toubkal Trek and London to Brighton Cycle. I also look after community fundraisers that are putting on their own events in aid of Blesma. Normally I would be attending third party events and cheer points as well as meeting community fundraisers and hosting cheque presentations – something I am sure I will experience when things go back to normal.

• Tell us about yourself?

I have figure skated since I was 8 and still like to go once a week (when I can), to have some fun spinning on the ice. I also do Aerial Circus classes and play squash. I have recently gotten engaged to my Fiancé Nick, so most of my spare time at the moment is spent wedding planning, and as we are about to move back to Chelmsford, any other free time will soon be taken up decorating our new home!