Andrew Barnett – Business Development Manager
Prior to joining Unlocking Potential, Andrew spent over five years working at Cornwall College as the Deputy Procurement Officer. Before that he worked for a South West food distributor as an Area Account Manager dealing with a wide range of businesses across West Cornwall.
Andrew loves living and working in Cornwall and when not at work he is kept busy with his three daughters (including twin girls) and enjoys surfing, cycling, squash, tennis and walking along the Coast.
Andrew, tell us more about your role:
I have two roles really. Firstly, I support Unlocking Potential with the procurement of Mentors, Workshop Facilitators, and Expert Speakers for our events. Secondly, I work with various businesses across the county as a Business Development Manager.
What experience have you had working with businesses?
I have worked with such a variety of businesses, all in different stages of growth and development by helping them with ideas on how to innovate and put new plans into practice. I’ve also work with individuals who are taking their first steps in the workplace as graduates or those who are taking on new employment in a business through Unlocking Potential jobs.
What do you most enjoy about working with businesses?
I enjoy seeing new employees excel in roles; being part of their journey with them. I love seeing how mentoring can develop their skills, be it in the area of finance, social media or marketing to name a few, in order to maximise their own impact in the businesses they work in. I get to see some amazing results for businesses off the back of the mentorship programme.
How do you stay inspired?
By being involved, being part of it. It’s amazing how unique each business is, how plans grow and evolve be it through a discussion with a colleague or an idea previously ignored.
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Thai Green Curry – my favourite!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
A quote I once heard about parenting small children; ‘The Days are long, but the years are short’. While they’re hard work, time flies, and you got to enjoy them while they’re young!
What would be your super power?
Flying… I get bored waiting around airports/ boarding gates!