Neal leads on outreach for the Defence Geographic Centre and the Government Geography Profession. He has advised governments on international boundary issues at diplomatic levels and has worked as an Army Reservist Commander. He has extensive experience of promoting geography, including at careers fairs and industry conferences and exhibitions.
About
I work at the Ministry of Defence, provisioning mapping and digital data. I am experienced in production, research, IT capability and data schema development, managing requirements and international relationships and policy. I have advised governments on international boundary issues at diplomatic levels. As an Army Reservist commander, I have practical experience of operational Geo delivery.
Preferences
- Location: Cambridgeshire
- Availability: daytime, evening, online and in person
- Key stage: KS4 and KS5
- Themes: geopolitics, GIS, government and defence
Current or most recent role
I am the Head of Learning, Development and Talent responsible for recruiting/retention, initial Geo training, staff development/career paths including defining the Defence Geography profession as well as outreach to academia and professional organisations. I have latterly taken up the additional role of Government Geography Profession Deputy Head for Outreach and Talent pipeline.
Previous experience
I am currently involved in developing outreach for both the Defence Geographic Centre and Government Geography Profession. I have extensive experience of promoting geography at careers fairs, STEM events, industry conferences and exhibitions and leading British Cartographic Society Restless Earth sessions. I have also supported local council job events specifically for non-mainstream people trying to gain employment.
Why I want to become a professional ambassador
I am passionate about geography and keen to promote the rewarding careers available to young geographers.
Types of activities
- Talking about current job and career pathway
- Attending a careers fair
- Running activities about my career sector and the opportunities available; talking about what geographical skills I use at work and how geography is used in the 'real world'
Email Alice at a.matthews@rgs.org to connect with Neal