At Big Picture Training, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Behind every course, every project, and every client conversation, there’s a dedicated team working hard to make it happen.
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Gemma Ferguson, our Executive Assistant. In just 10 months, Gemma has become an essential part of the team, bringing organisation, creativity, and plenty of humour to the table.
From keeping Jo on her toes to helping drive forward our mission to make a difference in social housing, Gemma plays a vital role in keeping the wheels turning at BPT.
We sat down with her for a fun Q&A to get to know the person behind the role…
Q1. What does being an EA at Big Picture Training actually involve?
I’ve been with Big Picture for about 10 months now. In that time, I’ve supported the team with CRM management, social media campaigns, travel arrangements, office management, and most importantly, being a soundboard for Jo to run her wild (and brilliant!) ideas past.
Q2. What’s your favourite part of working with the BPT team?
Honestly? The team itself. I love everyone’s energy, their motivation to really make a difference, and their creativity. Each person brings something unique, whether it’s ideas, expertise, or personality, and together, we make the wheels turn and bring the magic.
Q3. Describe a typical day in three words.
There is no typical day! Working closely with Jo means I need to be inside her head… and that is WILD. Her creativity and energy keep me on my toes, I have to stay flexible and agile, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q4. Coffee or tea?
Tea. I’m a Yorkshire Tea girl (sometimes with TWO bags!). But… I also have two sugars in my tea, so to avoid 14 teaspoons of sugar a day, I switch it up with black coffee. Plus, I need the caffeine to keep up with Jo! ☕
Q5. If you could swap jobs with someone on the team, who would it be?
Ellie, hands down. Her knowledge about the industry is mind-blowing, and just one day inside her head would teach me so much. But mostly, Ellie is the kindest, most compassionate person, and to spend a whole day bringing that level of kindness to everyone I meet would completely fill my heart. 💛
Q6. What’s one achievement you’re most proud of?
That’s a tough one! From sell-out training programs to new community initiatives, there’s always so much to be proud of. But honestly, just being part of Big Picture Training’s mission is the most rewarding part. Social housing plays such a vital role for so many people, especially the most vulnerable, and knowing I’m part of a team that’s on a mission to #MakeADifference makes this role so much more than a “job.” It fills me with pride, motivation, and ambition every single day.
Q7. What’s on your work playlist right now?
“Can’t Hold Us” 🎶 – it sums us up perfectly. The team are making waves, we’re driven to be the best, and no one can hold us down!
Q8. If you had a superpower to use in your role, what would it be?
To make everyone instantly see and understand just how impactful our training really is.
Q9. What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I hate public speaking. I’m the chatty one in the room, always bringing energy and enthusiasm, so people are shocked to learn I crumble with nerves at the thought of standing up and giving a speech. But once I get going… there’s no stopping me!
Q10. What excites you most about what’s coming up for Big Picture Training?
I could tell you… but I’ve signed an NDA 😉