PRMIA volunteer profile - Kathryn Kerle

by Adam Lindquist

PRMIA Director of Membership

Adam Along with your PRMIA role, what is your “normal” job?

Kathryn I am Chair, Audit, Risk and Evaluation Committee of the Microbiology Society and Adviser to the Board of Urgentem. Previously, I was Head of Decision Making, Royal Bank of Scotland.

Adam What are some of the benefits you have found with being active with PRMIA?

Kathryn I think there have been two key benefits: keeping up with developments in risk management and developing relationships with risk professionals across the industry. When I joined PRMIA, I was in a role at RBS that was very inward-facing. I was keen to meet risk professionals at other organizations, and PRMIA gave me the means to do so.

Adam

Why do you recommend that people should volunteer?

Kathryn I think being involved with PRMIA can really boost your career in risk. You meet a wide range of risk professionals, from subject matter experts to senior executives. And, because you work with them on various events, you really get to know them. In the process, you run the risk of learning something. Finally, it is fun.

Adam What kind of professional benefits have you experienced by volunteering?

Kathryn I have developed skills in chairing committees as well as moderating panel discussions. And, I have learned about a wide range of risk issues, from the challenges of diversity and inclusion to the implications of open banking.

Adam I have found that volunteers often are involved with a few organizations. Are you the same?

Kathryn Yes, along with PRMIA I am a member of the London Committee of Human Rights Watch.

Adam

What time management tips would you suggest to others to make volunteering worth their time?

Kathryn As Chair of the London Chapter, I try to make sure that we are realistic in our expectations of volunteers. And I try to make sure we are all clear on what we expect of volunteers and what they can expect from us. On a personal level, I try to plan ahead as much as possible to make sure I can fit everything in.

Adam

Thank you, Kathryn for your great insights.

There are a variety of short- and long-term PRMIA volunteer opportunities available. VIEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

interviewee Kathryn Kerle

Kathryn Kerle serves as the Chair and Co-regional Director of the PRMIA London Chapter, one of our most active. I caught up with Kathryn to get her perspectives on the role of volunteering and her take on why others might want to consider doing it as well.