First published in CommUnicate issue 315.

Zoe Howard recently took up the post of Executive Communications Co-ordinator at Warwick Manufacturing Group. Her role involves leading on all aspects of communications activity for WMG including media, publications, marketing and online.

Favourite phrase

How can we do that better?

Least favourite phrase

We’ve always done it that way, why should we change?

Magazines read

PR Week, Marie Claire

Life before Warwick

Journalist, PR luvvy, Government PR luvvy.

Smartest career move

Sounds creepy, but actually coming here is probably going to be the move of my career.

Lifelong ambition

To be able, when I’m 80, to look back and say “Well, I guess I had a pretty full life.”

People are always surprised to learn this about me, but...

I used to enjoy winter mountaineering and once got stuck on Ben Nevis for three days.

As a young child what did you want to be as a "grown-up"?

A pilot.

Now that you are grown-up what would be your "dream job"?

Director of Communications for Amnesty International.

What has life's experience taught you so far?

To work hard at seeing the other person’s point of view in order to get the best result in the end.

Major achievement to date?

Improving internal communications at my last employer.

What do you treasure most?

My two children (girl, 4 and boy, 1).

Any hidden talents?

No – terrible at telling jokes, can’t sing, but can dance a bit.

If you could change one thing in the University overnight, what would it be?

Having water coolers on every floor.

Which person inspires you most, and why?

My daughter, because of her inability to ever give up or let anything get to her.

Your favourite hobby or pastime?

Gardening.