Adam Gomes

Having first studied American Studies at the University of Derby, Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing, Adam Gomes is continuing his education by studying the online Masters Sustainability and Environmental Management.

In his current role, Adam oversees strategies that ensures the health and safety of staff and students across Derbyshire. His role includes strategic planning, creating and presenting papers, engaging staff with new initiatives and auditing health and safety practice at an organisational level. Despite the high level of activity linked to the nature of the role, Adam finds the challenge enjoyable as the team create a safe and inclusive environment across the organisation.

Journey of personal and professional growth

Studying at the University of Derby was the first time Adam had spent time away from home. Initially moving into Lonsdale halls of residence, the experience fostered a sense of independence while providing him with the opportunity to meet new friends from across of the country. Adam looks back ands notes how invaluable this was, contributing to his personal development and maturity within the safe environment provided by the halls and alongside other fellow students.

University journey

Through his studies Adam developed his confidence by presenting in large lecture theatres, covering a variety of topics. Hi continues to use these skills which have enabled him to excel in his current role, where he delivers presentations about papers and projects to people across the organisation.

One of Adam's favourite memories was celebrating his achievements at his graduation ceremony with family and fellow graduates, something he looks back on very fondly even today.

Following the completion of his degree, Adam decided to experience North American culture by spending a year in Canada.

"I'm so pleased I took the opportunity to travel following my studies. It was incredible, I met a lot of people and expanded my personal and professional network - the experience really had a positive impact on my life."

Advice for current students

Adam advises current students to create a long-term plan, starting with the course studied to identify possible progression routes from there - as there can be so many potential opportunities to take. Taking an approach that gathers insight enables students to consider their options, prepare for a variety of opportunities and set an outline timeline for achieving goals.

Adam notes that effectively using time to identify a benchmark for measuring progress can be highly beneficial and motivational when students are looking to take the next steps in their career.

Achievements after graduation

Adam's most significant achievement in his current role was the health and safety work he lead on during the Covid-19 pandemic. Assisting the organisation to safeguard staff and students led to Adam winning the University Alliance ‘Braveheart Award’ for contributions during this period.

Other notable achievements include attaining the Chartered Fellow status through the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH) and Fellow of the Institute of Welfare & Facilities Management (IWFM). Achieving this high level of recognition through these institutions, required hard work, self-funding and a significant time investment which had to be juggled effectively with personal commitments.

Two years ago, Adam became a Board Member of the University Safety & Health Association (USHA), which was a proud moment. He went on to serve as Chair of the 2024 USHA Conference, which brought in prominent speakers to raise awareness, encourage networking and provide CPD opportunities for health and safety professionals nationally.

What does the future hold?

Adam aims to complete his Masters in Sustainability and Environmental Management while progressing in his career. Always looking to have a good work life balance, personally Adam also wants to organise a family trip to Disney World for his three children - which we are sure they will appreciate.