The Leadership and Management Academy is pleased to announce that it is expanding its Internal Mentor Pool.

We are looking for new mentors from all Professional Services Departments, Faculties and Schools.  All staff, from all job levels, from any job family can apply to be a mentor.

We are particularly keen to expand the diversity of our mentor pool and would encourage all staff to consider applying.   We know how important it is to be able to see ourselves in others.  Representation matters.  We are very keen to hear from staff from minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA staff, staff with disabilities, neurodiverse members of staff, and anyone who has overcome a challenge within their working lives that they may be able to share with others to help them on their journey.  We do believe that everyone has something that they can offer, no matter how small or insignificant you may feel it is.  It may just be the missing piece to someone else’s puzzle.

What does the Internal Mentor Pool involve?

The Internal Mentor Pool currently comprises around 140 staff from a range of professional service and academic roles who we match through our internal service to staff across the university. Often these staff members are looking for particular support in their careers from others who may have once experienced what they are currently working through.  You do not need to have a formal qualification to become a mentor.  It is your life experience and commitment to helping others that is of most important.  We will offer you support and internal training as part of your induction to mentoring.

What is mentoring?

A mentor is someone in the workplace who is able to provide support, advice and guidance to a colleague.  The mentor is willing to share their lived experience, skills, knowledge and expertise and to guide for the benefit of the mentee and the University.  Mentors are from everywhere within the university and matches are made based on what you want to achieve.  Mentors work with their mentees on a one-to-one basis, although they may suggest further people for you to contact as part of your relationship.

Why mentoring?

Mentoring creates opportunities for the development of supportive relationships, enabling individuals to develop personally and professionally.  By taking part in the Internal Mentor Pool you will also benefit from personal development, deeper insights into the challenges others face, and a greater understanding of the positive impact you can have on others.

How can I become a mentor?

All members of staff at the university can complete a short application form to become a mentor.  We encourage applications from across the university population, recognising the range of skills and talent in our workforce.  You must feel comfortable with the prospect of mentoring people who may be working in a similar or different area to yourself.

There is no requirement for you to mentor a certain number of mentees throughout a year, but we would like you to mentor at least one staff member within every 12 month period.  We offer internal training, support and a Community of Practice where you can build relationships with other university mentors.

You can find more information on mentoring on the LMA Hub.

For further information, please contact Ruth Francis, Management Development Manager.