I trained as a teacher of Outdoor Education and have worked in various roles in sports development and management throughout my career. I began as an Outdoor Education Instructor but soon moved to the management of outdoor education facilities/programmes and then to a more strategic role as Director in Sport NI.I worked as Director of Participation & Facilities in Sport NI for 18 years. During this time I directed programmes and investments to promote participation in sport. I managed a professional team of up to 60 staff and an annual budget of up to £20m. I ran capital and revenue funding programmes in accordance with public sector requirements. During this time I led the Sport NI team that developed Sports Matters: NI Strategy for Sport & Physical 2009-19.As Acting CEO I lead the executive functions of the organisation and reported to the Chair of the Board.My role in SIB involved providing strategic and project management support to district councils in relation to a range of capital projects and policy matters.As Director of Community Planning in Antrim Newtownabbey Borough Council I have responsibility for a range of functions including capital projects, building control, arts & culture, community relations and community planning.