Changemakers - Chris Ward
12 April 2013 at 4:33 pm
Chris Ward works in operations and communications for Green Renters. This week we profile Chris in Changemakers – a weekly column which examines inspiring people and their careers in the Not for Profit sector.
Green Renters is a Not for Profit organisation founded in 2009 to provide sustainability advice specifically for those living in rental accommodation. Frustrated by constantly attending conferences and exhibitions that only provide products and advice to home owners, Green Renters provides advice for those who are unable to make major changes to a property but still intend to spend many years in somewhere they call home.
What are you currently working on in your organisation?
Lots right now, a green renting expo for rooming house residents in Sydney, many projects for councils in Melbourne, workshops all over the country, starting our new membership drive and much, much more.
How long have you been working in the Not for Profit sector?
About six years, primarily working in web and tech roles and primarily in the environment sector.
What do you like best about working in your current organisation?
We’re lean, nimble and flexible. We have a very hands off board who let us try things and move freely. We can try ideas at the drop of a hat, change tact and approach, which suits our personality and resources very well.
What are you reading/ watching/ listening to at the moment?
I’m currently reading JK Rowling’s The Casual Vacancy and Why the West Rules-for Now by Ian Matthew Morris. Listening to lots and lots of podcasts from around the world and watching a lot of West Wing and New Tricks.
My greatest challenge is…
The complete and utter lack of time to achieve all the things I want to.
What (or who) inspires you?
Great novel or unique ideas that are delivered in effective ways, recognising markets, audience and any gaps in existing similar products, campaigns or organisations. I love hearing people’s ideas and find the most inspiring at events during an average week for me. People who can explain their ideas clearly and concisely, inspire me even more.
