60 seconds with Verity Wilkes

Chevening chats to Verity Wilkes, Senior Programme Officer – Fellowships at the Chevening Secretariat

Can you tell us a little bit about what the Fellowships team at Chevening does?

The fellowships team works with the smaller cohorts of Chevening Fellows who come to the UK throughout the year. Chevening Fellowships are open to applicants from a smaller number of countries; they provide mid-career professionals, often already in positions of leadership, with the opportunity to undertake dynamic training and professional development in the UK to further develop their knowledge, skills, and expertise in their field.

Fellows come to the UK for anywhere between one week and one year, and, depending on the programme, may undertake a period of self-directed research or a specific short course at a UK institution.

In the fellowships team we work closely with the host institutions, partners, and the fellows themselves to ensure that all programmes are administered effectively, and that individuals are receiving the best opportunities in line with Foreign and Commonwealth Office priorities and objectives.

What is your favourite part of the job?

My favourite part of the job is meeting the fellows! The breadth of knowledge and experience represented by our fellows is always impressive, and it is a pleasure to work with them.

What do you do when you’re not at work?

I love travelling! But when I’m in London I enjoy exploring the city, and cooking new recipes at home.