Lisa Williams joins cococo™

8 May

Lisa Williams has joined Derby-based cococo™ as Project Manager in what she describes as an inspirational opportunity.

The former HR Manager for Marriott Hotels was introduced to the fledgling social enterprise late last year, when Marriott Hotels and Cooper Parry became founding members of the cococo™ steering group.  Working on the concept of coaching ‘buddies’,  cococo™ aims to bring together people from businesses and the community, broadening each other’s horizons and opening up new opportunities. Today, it is a social enterprise working within Spirita in partnership with Marriott Hotels and Cooper Parry.

Lisa, from Worksop, Nottinghamshire, ran the cococo™ pilot scheme and saw instantly the benefits it brings to staff wishing to develop their skills and the company for whom they work. When the opportunity to join cococo™ arose, she leapt at the chance, having always been interested in the social enterprise concept.

Speaking about her decision to change her career direction after 10 years with Marriott, she explained: “cococo™ is different to commercial training companies,” she said. “We provide the link between good intentions, strategic planning and achievement. I was so impressed at the cococo™ model that I was inspired to leave a wonderful job in a brilliant company, without hesitation, to try the unknown. It’s a brilliant opportunity to do the sort of work I’ve always been interested in, which helps businesses and the community to develop.

“I’m also really pleased that, as Marriott are heavily involved in cococo, I haven’t lost touch with my old colleagues. I can’t thank them all enough for their support on the project.”

Spirita is one of the regions leading providers of housing and associated support services and is also the home of the phenomenally successful social enterprise RedWelly. Phil Smith, Spirita’s Business Growth Director, said: “Lisa is ideal for this role. She understands human resources and what it takes to help people to develop, she has a strong desire to support the community and an excellent business network.

“With her enthusiasm and commitment, cococo™ will go from strength to strength.”

Media Enquiries:  Sallie Blair,  Better Times, 01283 821012.