Debbie Williams – Nominated Candidate for Club Growth Director

Toastmasters member since

May 2017

Education

MA Film and TV
ACB, ALB, DL5, PM4

Toastmasters offices held and terms of service

VPM, 2018/2019
President, 2019/2020
Area Director and Club Secretary, 2020/2021
Division Director, 2021/2022
District Conference Director 2022

Toastmasters honors and recognition

I have achieved 4 Triple Crowns to date.

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a District leader:

My background is in sales and business development having worked for a number of high profile media organisations. I also have experience as an independent entrepreneur and understand the need to strategically plan for success. I will bring this experience to the role of Club Growth Director.

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

Strategic planning is a process in which organisational leaders determine their vision for the future as well as identify their goals and objectives. For me as President, this was achieving 10 DCP points and a President’s Distinguished club. Area Director having achieved a President’s Distinguished Area with one new club, Division Director having practical, measurable goals and objectives in place. in conjunction with the Division team.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

I have managed my own P&L in the various companies that I have worked for and have acted as Treasurer for my local church which included setting up new financial systems, procedures and payment systems such as contactless payments.

What experience do you have in developing procedures?

I have set up new systems, sales procedures and training in my career. At toastmasters I have encouraged others to use existing systems such as the club success plan.

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

The main thing that I have learnt is that is not about me, but it has been an opportunity to support, inspire and watch others grow. You enviable grow as a result. It’s also about team work, working collaborately with others, understanding procedures and why they are in place for the benefit of everyone. It’s about supporting others and their decisions (even if you disagree).

Why do you want to serve as a District leader?

This is an opportunity to delve deeper in supporting the District, an opportunity to grow further into leadership and provide support to members. I will bring all my Toastmasters and professional experience to the role so that I can made a valued contribution and difference to the role of Club Growth Director.

In your opinion, what are the District mission’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

In my opinion the District’s major objectives are to build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence. I would work to achieve this by looking at the bigger picture, the whole District, trying to ensure that excellence in outstanding clubs are being shared, looking at geographical opportunities for new clubs. Continue with club mentors and sponsors and emphasising the importance of both.

Additional information about yourself

I’m known to frequent the gym, go for runs, swim, cycle and I’ve completed 12 spartan races to date. I’m also known for my banana cake and the fact that I’m not so great at making other flavours!