Geoffrey Etule

Geoffrey Etule, Chief People Officer for the Wye Valley Trust, acquired key skills through his Human Resource Management and European Studies degree, giving him the confidence to pursue his dreams of promoting the importance of mental health.

In addition to completing his academic qualification with the University of Derby, Geoffrey reconnected in a professional context accessing the Midlands Engine Mental Health Productivity Pilot. The pilot implemented activity to lower absence and incidences of reduced productivity due to poor mental health, providing sensitive support for staff within the workplace.

Following his passions

Geoffrey’s interests in mental health and supporting people to do their best actually drew him to the degree he chose to study. The course modules ensured that he was prepared for his future career, covering important topics such as employment law, recruitment and retention, organisational development and workforce planning. 

As well as enjoying the course itself, Geoffrey was impressed by the University’s purpose-built facilities. He also felt empowered by his lecturers, who were knowledgeable, kind and compassionate, supporting him to follow his dreams. 

“I feel that whilst studying at the University of Derby, I grew in confidence and developed the resilience necessary to succeed in life.” 

In addition to benefiting from guidance from his lecturers, the University’s Careers and Employment Service assisted Geoffrey with drafting CVs, cover letters and applications that enabled him to secure employment following his graduation. 

Career journey

Geoffrey’s professional career began as a Personal Assistant for a food manufacturing company, before joining the NHS as a HR Officer in 2000. From this role, Geoffrey progressed within the Trust. He believes that his biggest success since graduating was becoming a Director of HR & Organisational Development at the age of 35, and following this his current role as Chief People Officer for the Wye Valley Trust. 

In this role, Geoffrey is responsible for all people matters at the Trust, including employee relations, employee development, resourcing, workplace planning, health and wellbeing, organisational development and equality and diversity. 

Geoffrey’s successful career journey is an inspiration to all and he advises current students to think big and have confidence when planning their future.

Mental Health Productivity Pilot

The Mental Health Productivity Pilot aimed to integrate effective mental health practices into the workplace. This entailed reducing the stigma associated with mental health, breaking down barriers, opening conversations around workplace mental health and providing support to staff. These aims resonated with Geoffrey, as a values driven individual who believes that embedding mental health provision is essential to a workplace. 

Geoffrey found that participating in the programme provided useful guidance, supporting him to develop a comprehensive health and wellbeing strategy. As a result, the Trust has invested in a dedicated mental health staff nurse, developed over 90 mental health first aiders and provided mental health training to line managers to support staff.