Hear from Farhana Hawthorn about her career at PAGB
What is your current role at PAGB?
I am currently Director of Policy and Public Affairs.
What do you enjoy about your current role?
I really enjoy the variety of the role and the opportunity to work across such a wide range of issues that impact the consumer healthcare sector. No two days are the same – one day I might be meeting with parliamentarians, the next I could be working with colleagues on an emerging policy issue. I also really value being able to see the impact of our work, whether that’s influencing government policy, supporting our members, or helping to raise the profile of self-care nationally.
Where did your career at PAGB start?
I started as PAGB’s Media and Public Affairs Manager. I was offered the job just after returning from maternity leave with my second child. I was really worried about taking on a new challenge with such a young family, but my line manager – and the organisation as a whole – was really accommodating. If you are dedicated and work hard, there’s real understanding and flexibility at PAGB – I felt trusted to do my job well while also being supported as a parent, which made all the difference for me.
When the position for Head of Public Affairs and Communications came up, in the first few months of me being in my role, I was again worried about taking the step up. But Michelle, our CEO, is a firm believer in backing people’s potential and giving them the confidence to grow into new challenges. She supported me to make that transition successfully, which ultimately gave me the experience and confidence to move into my current position as Director of Policy and Public Affairs.
What support did you receive to transition to your new role?
I’ve always felt well supported at PAGB, both by my line managers and colleagues. When I moved into the senior leadership team (SLT), I had regular check-ins with Michelle and check-ins with others on the SLT, which gave me space to talk through challenges and test ideas.
I’ve also had access to external training and coaching, which has helped me develop the leadership and management skills needed for the role. Personal development is really encouraged at PAGB, and I really value the opportunity to keep growing in my role.
