Brendan Rooney, of Healthy n Happy Community Development Trust, has found his calling in the third sector
What is the first thing you do when you arrive at work?
“I say good morning, have a quick chat with whoever is around and then its tea and toast time.”
What makes a good day at work?
“A sense of fun and humour, good industry and sharing, collaboration and teamwork.”
How often do you socialise with colleagues outside the Christmas party?
“We are partial to a few beers and there are regular opportunities throughout the year to socialise. It’s entirely optional and always good fun.”
Is it better to work for a big charity or a small charity?
“I have worked in both and personally I have chosen to remain working in a small charity and community based organisation. I feel more connected to those we serve and work with, and I can see the difference each day that our work makes in people’s lives.”
What do you enjoy most about working at Healthy n Happy?
“The people I work with, the seriously high quality of the work that they do, their passion, skill and the impact this makes. This applies to our staff and to our 250 volunteers.”
What’s your favourite book?
“Got to be the Tao Te Ching (Definitive Edition) by Jonathan Star. I read this every day and usually in the morning before work. I do love reading fantasy books though and the escapism they offer.”
Would your 16-year-old self be impressed with where you are now?
“Yeah I reckon he would. He would be possibly frustrated by my now more balanced, middle of the road approach than his rebellious outlook. I was a punk at 16 and loved it. And completely clueless!”
Which do you prefer and why – Facebook, Twitter or Linkedin?
“I’m not a massive fan of social media but have embarked recently on my digitalisation journey. Probably Twitter at a push. It’s quick, informative and more precise in content.”
What’s your perfect weekend?
“Ooh tough question…A mixture of rest, relaxation, family and friends, some rum therapy and some sporting activity, such as cycling, tennis or walking although a good live concert would be in there too.”
What has been one of your greatest achievements so far?
“I left school with five C grades in my O levels but got a Master’s degree at 45 much to my father’s amusement (and pride). It was very much a personal goal and achievement.”
What was your first job?
“A commis chef and it was an eye opening start to my working career. I realised there was no money in it and rotten shifts, although I still love cooking.”
Is the third sector a calling or an accident?
“A calling for me without doubt. I left the NHS in 1991 and it was sink or swim – in terms of being in the third sector and as a manager for the first time. I swam, loved it and still do.”
Which Brian Cox do you prefer?
“I had to google the name! I recognised a few of the faces but don’t know enough about them to comment. They’ve passed me by for some reason.”
Brendan Rooney is executive director of the Healthy n Happy Community Development Trust
