We are all better than we know…
In our latest Why We Do What We Do spotlight, we hear from Kate O’Callaghan, our Commercial Director, who leads our Business Development Team and drives the growth of adult skills learning, apprenticeships, and employer and college partnerships.
Kate’s journey into the sector is deeply personal. Beginning her career as an apprentice in the army, she experienced first-hand how transformative the right opportunity can be. That early experience, combined with her time working with The Outward-Bound Trust, shaped a lasting passion for helping others realise their potential.
“Witnessing life-changing moments happening on a daily basis for apprentices and graduates was the point I knew I wanted to work in this sector.”
For Kate, “changing lives” is about unlocking potential – helping people recognise they are capable of more than they may believe and supporting them to take meaningful steps forward.
“It’s about being part of that moment when someone realises they’re capable of more than they thought… removing barriers and giving people opportunities to make real change.”
While her role has evolved over time, from working directly with individuals to now leading and developing a high-performing team, her purpose remains the same: creating opportunities for others to grow.
“Seeing a person develop in confidence and succeed in their career is incredibly satisfying – whether that’s the people we support or the team around me.”
Kate was drawn to Cidori by its ethos and the impact it delivers – often quietly, but powerfully – across employers, partners and individuals seeking opportunity.
“The Cidori ethos – the quiet and fantastic work they do to support people and partners – – really stood out to me – this is a place where you are more than just a number – somewhere you can have genuine impact and feel truly valued.”
Her ‘why’ is captured in a Kurt Hahn quote that continues to guide her work:
“We are all better than we know; if only we can be brought to realise this, we may never be prepared to settle for anything less.”
At Cidori, that belief sits at the heart of everything we do – helping people, businesses and communities recognise their potential and achieve more than they thought possible.
