I joined the Inspectorate as Publications Manager in August 2008. My previous jobs were generally in not-for-profit publishing, including at a housing association, the Basic Skills Agency, and a publishing training company. I studied English with Media at university.

My role is to manage the production of all reports produced by the Inspectorate (currently between 70 and 80 a year), ensuring they are edited to a high standard, fact checked and amended accurately, and published on time. This includes inspection reports, thematic reviews, annual reports and business plans. I work with a publications assistant and four fee-paid editors, and am part of the Secretariat.

My previous roles helped me to develop my publications management skills, particularly the need to be really organised. I am a big list-maker and quite a process-driven person so the methodical nature of the work suits me! I enjoy proofreading and editing, and do this regularly. I also like working as part of a team; I get great satisfaction from working with colleagues who have shared values and aims, and from contributing to the success and reputation of the organisation.

There are, of course, challenges – we have busy publications schedules and things don’t always go to plan. But the challenges are mitigated by a supportive working environment and the chance to do it better next time – there’s always another report to work on!

During my time at HMI Prisons I have had two children, and in 2010 I switched from working full time to part time. I work three days a week and this gives me a good work/life balance – I have an interesting and satisfying job in an organisation I’m proud to work for, but I get to spend valuable time at home with my children as well.