01/08/2026
Over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing you to the team behind Back to Life! First up, we caught up with our CEO Jo to hear her story 😊
With over four decades in education and training, Jo has built a career around developing people. We asked her what continues to inspire her.
Q: What do you enjoy most about wearing multiple hats within the company?
"It's the variety that I love most. Every day brings a different challenge, and I genuinely enjoy problem-solving and finding ways to help people succeed. I've been in this profession since 1979, with my career in education beginning back in 1989. Throughout my career I've loved supporting trainers, developing teams and helping people grow in confidence. For me, leadership is about bringing together different perspectives, empowering people to achieve things for themselves and creating an environment where everyone can thrive."
Q: How do you balance being both a business owner and an educator?
"Honestly, it's all down to having an incredible team. We've built a self-sufficient, capable team who confidently manage the day-to-day running of the business. That gives me the flexibility to step back from the operational side when needed and focus on what I enjoy most—educating, coaching and developing people. It's a balance I'm incredibly grateful for."
Q: How has your experience in the industry shaped the training you deliver?
"I've always believed that great training starts with trust, respect and a non-judgemental environment. Living with dyslexia has taught me that everyone learns differently, so I never assume there's only one way to teach. Instead, I focus on understanding each learner, adapting my approach and delivering the highest quality learning experience possible."
Q: What's your favourite course to teach, and why?
"Without a doubt, it's the Generic Instructors Course (GIC). There's something incredibly rewarding about helping people become confident, knowledgeable instructors.
The course gives me the opportunity to share insights from my own experience, facilitate learning and watch individuals develop into trainers who will go on to inspire others. Knowing you're helping shape the next generation of instructors is a privilege."
Beyond leading the business, our CEO is passionate about supporting charitable projects overseas. Thanks to the strength of the team she's built, she has been able to dedicate time to initiatives in Malaysia, Uganda and the British Virgin Islands, working alongside local communities to help bring their visions to life.
By sharing the knowledge and experience of our team, these projects focus on building sustainable infrastructure and developing people in ways that work within each community's own culture. It's a privilege to be part of creating opportunities that have a lasting impact 🩷
