A Day in the life of... James Swyer, Press & Publications Manager at GWCT
Is there such a thing as a typical day for you? If so, what's it like?
Compared to most people in the organisation, I’d imagine my day seems quite predictable. What I love about it though is that, while I’m at a desk most days, the tasks I’m doing and topics I’m working on are always changing. I can jump from laying out a book to analysing a spreadsheet of membership data, from writing about post-Brexit farming policy to loading a van for Game Fair. The only constant is tea. Lots and lots of tea.
How did you end up doing what you do?
Great question. I’m one of those English Literature graduates that got so fed up of being asked if he’s going to be a teacher that I got a job in marketing. I particularly like dealing with detailed and specialist subjects – I spent the seven years before I was here working in the rare collectibles and investment markets – and I like getting to grips with something outside my comfort zone. In my first week one scientist asked me how I can do my job without a background in ecology – I’d like to think I’m getting somewhere close to proving that I can.
What motivates you?
Personal pride. I don’t see the point in doing something badly or not putting the effort in. Organisations our size wouldn’t work without it. I’m also incredibly proud of the work the organisation does and how, at any time on any day, there are acres of British countryside with a bit of GWCT research going into them. That’s pretty exciting.
What’s the one thing that can make the difference between a good day and a bad one?
Planning. Anyone who’s seen my desk will be surprised with this, but there’s nothing like a last-minute request to throw your day off kilter. That or sleep. I’m a nightmare when I’m tired.
Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been?
I don’t travel much, but the Tongariro Alpine Crossing will live long in the memory. Three active volcanic mountains, natural hot springs and, if you’re a geek like me, the landscape that became Mordor in the Lord of the Rings films.
How do you relax?
Relax? I’ve got three kids! I read a lot and make the most of my short bus ride home to get through a few more pages or to enjoy a podcast. I’m a bit of a football and politics obsessive, but they both tend to raise my blood pressure rather than lowering it. The aforementioned children make commitment to another passion, pub quizzes, quite difficult, but an evening on the sofa competitively watching Only Connect with my wife, Sam, is an ample substitute.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
I’ll be greedy and pick two – Paddy and Carol Henderson who founded the Trussell Trust. What started in 1997 as a project to help starving people in Bulgaria grew to also include the Salisbury Foodbank and now supports 1200 foodbanks across the UK. A remarkable force for good.
What is your most treasured possession?
I don't have anything with financial or emotional value. Judging by how often my wife tells me to put it down, it must be my phone.
What keeps you awake at night?
Everything. I have a real habit of waking up and emailing myself ideas for work in the pitch black.
What’s the best part of your week?
As much as I love my job, 3pm on a Saturday holds a special place in my heart. Sat just a few hundred yards from where I was born, cheering eleven men running around kicking a football. One of life’s great pleasures.