Seeking a change of career, I established Gary Brown Developments, initially to facilitate a working sabbatical of sorts. Over the following two plus years, I completed several exciting projects in predominantly the domestic renovation market. This role brought together my project management skills, transferable from my youth work career, and my lifelong hobby of home renovations and design. With a small staff team and a network of sub contractors, delivering outstanding results for valued customers, alongside completing the day to day business administration that running a small business requires, taught me the true meaning of hard work and developed skills of dedication and commitment that continue to shape my working life.

I was initially employed by Harborough Youth and Community Trust to bring vision, creativity and leadership to a dormant charity. Through establishing a sound governance structure, setting a bold vision and building innovative partnerships with public, private and voluntary organisations, Harborough Youth and Community Trust went on to become an established organisation, working to positively impact the lives of young people and their families and supporting them to thrive.As Charity Manager, I was responsible for all staff and volunteer management, budget setting and management, funding application, partnership development, facilities management and project management. This was a hugely enjoyable and rewarding 7 years, with the oversight of the design, fundraising and creation of a purpose built Youth and Community Centre in Market Harborough a particular highlight.