Take a break with Dr Kellie Vincent
Publication date:
Join us as we sit down with members of the Ravensbourne community to hear about what they're up to, what they enjoy doing in their free time, and - most importantly - what is their favourite break-time snack?
Hi there! What is your name and role at Ravensbourne?
Hello I’m Kellie Vincent, Executive Dean of Business, Management and Commerce.
It’s time for a coffee break! What’s your go-to drink or snack?
Coffee, mostly black, sometimes a latte or cappuccino with no chocolate on top.
What’s the best part of the role?
My role is a brand new role in our changing University and is just the best opportunity to help build and shape a brand new Business School. It isn’t something that happens very often in universities particularly in a shaky sector where many are shrinking. It feels like an absolute privilege and it’s the best opportunity because the team across the school are just amazing! It sounds a bit twee and like a cliché but I genuinely believe the people and our students make the role.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
At the moment there really isn’t a typical day. The drive to the station is usually the most typical part especially when you spot the same dog walkers, cyclists and regular commuters. Honestly, anything can happen and my diary has been pretty full with meetings simply because we are in that moment of change. One ritual I have been trying to build in this summer is to make sure that I go up to the roof (in R1), take in the view and get five minutes of fresh air. It is always a reminder to me of how we are so fortunate to be in the middle of a vibrant part of London.
How do you like to unwind and de-stress?
Aside from my little trips to our lookout tower when I am at work, when I’m at home I de-stress by walking my dogs, sailing (mostly crewing not helming) our little dinghy at our local lake and sometimes baking. Anything that is away from a laptop tends to de-stress me.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
I would tell myself that no matter who is around you at that time in your life, there will be a zillion other interesting people to meet later. 18 is a tough age and yet there is everything to hope for and there is still time for plans b to z.
Quickfire questions!
I can’t stop listening to…Oasis as I’m still annoyed I spent a day trying to get tickets and failed miserably!
A book I recently loved is…The Life Impossible by Matt Haig.
My favourite random emoji is…the poo emoji - it reminds me of my son’s giggling when they were little.
The best dessert is…summer pudding followed by Burnt Basque cheesecake which I discovered belatedly thanks to Rave colleagues!
My favourite thing to do in London is…mooching around Covent Garden or Seven Dials early on a weekend, when it is still quiet, if I have stayed over in the city.
If I won an all-expenses-paid trip, I’d go to…wherever the Northern Lights are visible as I would absolutely love to see them.
