Super Seven #6 Caroline Clark

In the sixth of our Super Seven Series we profile our COO, Caroline Clark.  Caroline is a founding member of KETS and is very much the unwavering energy that keeps the team on track.

1.  Can you tell us a bit about yourself? 

I’m Caroline, a straightforward and optimistic northerner with a mischievous sense of humour.

I’m an engineer. I find ways to fix things or make them work better, though these days I’m not solving technical problems.

2.  What’s your role in KETS? 

I’m the Chief Operating Officer which is the kind of job that is different in every company or organisation. In KETS, this means I keep the engine of the company running smoothly so we can go to exciting places together. I look after our people, our projects and our finances and make sure we’re working as effectively as possible on all the important things.

3.  What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

While we’re still fairly small, the best part is getting to know the whole team with their individual interests and quirks. In this job, I always have a reason to check in with the team, find out who they are, what they’re up to and what they need to develop and grow as individuals.

4. What inspires you?

I’m inspired by people who work hard, push boundaries and are willing to do things differently. I’m often inspired by random conversations I have with people who are passionate about what they do – this happens a lot in Bristol.

5.  What advice would you give someone wanting to get into your role.

There is no single route to the role I do. Some might say you should study business but actually, it’s about being willing to try new things, being tenacious and believing you can do most things if you are willing to give it a go and take the time to learn. You also have to take a few risks along the way, get up if you take a knock and not take anything too personally.

6. What do you do when you’re not at work?  

I’m a parent of two young people at secondary school, so right now I’m helping with homeschooling and finding ways for us to enjoy each other’s company when we see each other for most of every day.

Aside from that. I spend time in my allotment growing fruit and veggies and train in martial arts when I can find the time – I’ve done Goju Ryu for over 20 years. I also like going out for dinner with friends and chatting late into the evening – I’m looking forward to doing that again!

I’m also working on a project to bring young people and organisations together to design and build products to solve real world problems.

7. What’s the last book you read? 

Japonisme: Ikigai, Forest Bathing, Wabi-sabi and more by Erin Niimi Longhurst. It has lots of suggestions of ways to incorporate Japanese culture into our daily lives to become happier and more fulfilled.

To get in touch with Caroline, drop us an email at enquiry@kets-quantum.com