Recently, we welcomed Glesni to the Carterwood team as an intern. Working closely with our data team, she’s gained valuable insight into the sector and contributed to some of our core analytical projects.
Below, she reflects on her experience and what she’s learned during her time with us.
Over the past month, I have been interning at Carterwood, working closely with the data team to support ongoing research into the elderly care home market. My focus has been on sourcing and validating key data – spotting inconsistencies, identifying gaps, and ensuring the accuracy of what underpins both client-facing reports and Carterwood’s analytical services.
From day one, it was clear to me that Carterwood genuinely lives its values. Doing things right and encouraging bravery is second nature here; the whole team, even a first day intern (!), is encouraged and empowered to contribute, speak up and generally be challenging and inquiring in every exchange so that the professional bar is always being raised. Things feel speedy and fast paced here – there’s a getting things done energy going on!
I have appreciated the focus on purpose (everyone is clear on what’s to be done), sustainability (a central pillar of operations) and inclusion (a safe and equal place for all). From initial internal conversations through to project deliveries these rudiments are always there.
My programme has been tailored to provide the broadest possible range of experiences which has been brilliant. As well as being set my own clear set of deliverables, I have been an invitee at a number of events, meetings and stakeholder dialogues which have been really illuminating. Stand outs have been the L10 meetings across both the data and commercial teams. These weekly team meetings – part of the Traction EOS framework that Carterwood adopts – help create a clear view of how goals are tracked, decisions are made, targets met and maintained while also efficiently addressing and resolving issues and challenges. Being exposed to internal operations in this way has been very insightful and valuable in shaping my understanding of team structure and accountability.
I have also been able to develop a better understanding of how effective client relationships are shaped and maintained over time. Sitting in on numerous conversations and learning how the team balances detail with clarity has been especially useful – both from a communication and commercial point of view.
Carterwood’s B Corp accreditation last year demonstrates its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. I had opportunities to participate in meetings exploring the company’s path to net zero, and to attend PurposeFest where like-minded businesses had the chance to learn, share and generally network on this topic.
My time here has been an enormously valuable introduction to how a purpose-driven, commercially focused business operates behind the scenes. If my experience has been anything to go by and Carterwood’s internship programme continues to be rolled out in the future, then there will be no shortage of applicants!
Huge thanks to the entire Carterwood team for making me feel so welcome and for giving me the chance to be part of something so valuable!
