Jane Boswell is Corporate Responsibility Manager for IPC Media, a leading consumer magazine publisher whose head office is based in the new Blue Fin Building on Southwark Street. Here she explains what she does as a CR manager and also, what she thinks the benefits of volunteering are:

 

"My key responsibility areas are community involvement and the environment. The community side covers a range of activities, from project managing a design programme involving three schools in the borough to heading up our charity of the year partnership, as well as being involved in Better Bankside's CSR and Travel Planning groups and encouraging our employees to volunteer their time and skills in the community. My environmental responsibility sees me implementing various internal initiatives aimed at helping our employees to become more aware of their environmental impact and take steps to reduce it, as well as looking at how the business as a whole can reduce its environmental footprint.

 

I'm keen to promote volunteering to IPC employees for a number of reasons. Firstly, I know that many of our previous and existing volunteers gain a real sense of satisfaction and fulfilment as a result of their contribution to charities or community groups, and this overflows into their work and makes them feel proud to work for a company which supports volunteering. Secondly, it's widely recognised that many volunteering activities contribute strongly to individuals' skills development. Finally I know that those at IPC who have volunteered as part of a team have found that the experience has enhanced their relationships and promoted more effective team working. All in all, it's a win-win opportunity!"