SIMIAN Welcomes Quality & Curriculum Director, Tim Gibbs to the Team

Find out more about the newest member of the SIMIAN team, Tim Gibbs, below:

Could you please tell us about your past work experience?

My career started with a 9½ year stint in the RAF followed by 17 years in the Gas industry.  During the last 7 years of my employment in the Gas industry I also lectured 2 evenings a week at a local college on HNC Engineering units.  This gave me a good taste of the FE sector, as well as giving me the opportunity to qualify as a Lecturer.  I then decided to leave industry to join FE on a full-time basis.  That was over 12 years ago.  I have since predominantly worked in a range of management roles generally across Engineering and Construction FE curriculum areas, with a relatively short spell prior to joining Simian, as Training Manager for a Civil Engineering company.

Can you describe a typical day at Simian?

I’m new to Simian, but I must say that no 2 days are yet the same.  I would describe my typical day so far as comfortably challenging, supported by a great team of people.

Is there one aspect of your work in particular that you most enjoy?

Development and innovation.  I really enjoy the challenge of developing new aspects of delivery or curriculum.  I also get satisfaction in working with teams to find solutions for best practice and innovation.

What advice would you give those considering a career in the construction industry?

Construction is hugely diverse.  Once you enter the Construction industry you begin to see  how big a sector it is and the massive amount of opportunities there are at all levels.  Therefore, it pays when working in the construction industry, to keep your options open and take your opportunities, as there will be many.

In your opinion, what is the most important piece of guidance you give youngsters making their way in the industry?

Work hard and enjoy the rewards.  The Construction industry offers high reward of industry skills, qualifications and financial incentive.  Stay positive, work hard, and take your opportunities.

Before working at Simian, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I can’t think of anything that stands out as that unusual.  But I have particularly enjoyed many aspects of my work throughout all of my employed positions.  Particularly so within the Training and Education sector.  While involved in the sector I have also, during the past 9 years, taken on some awarding body consultancy work.  Outside of my normal day job I do still undertake occasional assignments, such as in external verification, qualification development, and examiner work.  The diversity of these I still find interesting, and of course it also continues to add value to my CPD.

What would be your dream job?

Twenty years ago, I would have said a professional sportsman.  I would also have liked to perform as a professional singer, although I can’t really sing!  But I’ve now reached the stage of my career that I’m happy with, so I’m not sure what else I’d prefer to be doing at this time.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I could list somewhere under almost every letter of the alphabet.  There are many places throughout Europe and Asia that spring to mind.  But although I’ve been to a few parts of North America in the past, I would like to explore the States further as probably a first choice.

Favourite film?

I like the occasional film, and I’ve enjoyed many.  But no one film stands out as a favourite.  However, I do remember that I did particularly enjoyed the Peter Sellers films.

Favourite food?

Depends what mood I’m in!  But often includes, olives stuffed with chilli or garlic, or medium rare rump steak.  I also enjoy lots of fresh vegetables.

Have you ever had your 15 minutes of fame?

Nothing really stands out for me.  But perhaps a time when I ran the Cardiff half-marathon and it finished with a lap inside the millennium stadium in front of a cheering crowd.  Not exactly a moment of fame perhaps, rather a feel-good factor given that as a youngster I would have loved to play rugby for Wales and run out onto the National stadium full of spectators!