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Each month, we will put a team member in the hotseat by asking them some insightful questions about their career and interests.

To start us off, we will be learning more about our Partnership Manager Ioana Calin who many of you may know as your account manager at Partners West Midlands.

We asked Ioana 9 questions and here were the responses:

  1.  What do you do at WMGC?

    I manage and recruit members of the Partners West Midlands programme, particularly in the real estate and built environment industry. I make sure our partners fully benefit from the value our partnership brings to their business and our region. 

  2.  What do you like about working at WMGC?
     
    My favourite part in my role is working with companies that are passionate about and committed to the region’s growth in a responsible, ethical, and inclusive way. I’m proud to be part of the important role WMGC plays in bringing all these organisations together and helps deliver the region’s industrial strategy. 
  3. What is something clients in your industry have to deal with that you want to fix?
     
    There are several. One common denominator I have found amongst our partners is they want and need to increase their profile in the West Midlands. The incredible work they do within and for the region is worth shouting about more, and it goes beyond a PR initiative. I am keen to leverage the partnership further to address these specific challenges. From supplying insights that support business decisions and facilitating strategic connections in the public and private sectors to providing opportunities across the region and beyond – our Partners West Midlands members see the value of our partnership and we are proud to be part of their journey. 
  4. Where have you worked in the past?
     
    In 2021 I have supported a manufacturing company’s expansion in mainland Europe, from strategy to marketing and business development. Prior to that, I leased and managed luxury penthouse properties in Medellin, Colombia for 6 years – where my communications, strategic management, marketing and sales skills helped me understand my clients’ needs and deliver solutions through a flexible and customer-oriented approach.
  5.  What's your background?
     
    From PR, copywriting and social media to real estate, sales and business development – I’ve worn multiple hats juggling different roles and responsibilities. I lived and worked in Romania, Colombia and freelanced with clients all over the world, which shaped my forward-thinking, holistic approach and work ethic. 
  6. What's your favourite quote?
     
    'Have something to say and say it as clearly as you can. That is the only secret of style.’ (Matthew Arnold) – I find it applicable in every aspect of life.
  7. What book are you currently reading?
     
    Principles by Ray Dalio is the book I’m currently reading and taking away invaluable advice from.
  8.  What are the values that drive you?
     
    Kindness, integrity and determination are values I’ll never compromise on, they drive me in everything I do. 
  9. What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
     
    I am always on a food adventure, but I try to spend my free time also exploring the country, writing and exercising. 

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