Introducing BSN's new CEO, Fran Cockshull
Earlier this year, the British Society for Neuroendocrinology (BSN) welcomed our first staff Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Fran Cockshull. After 12 years of 'virtual' CEO support from freelance Sue Thorn, this appointment marks a key turning point for the BSN and the Journal of Neuroendocrinology (JNE). Fran will work closely with the Board of Trustees to turn the BSN's strategic vision into reality as well as manage staff and day-to-day operations of the Society.
In this blog, we catch up with Fran about why she chose to join the BSN and her plans for the Society's and Journal's future:
What excites you most about becoming the CEO for BSN and what experience are you looking forward to bringing to the role to further BSN's vision of advancing neuroendocrine science, knowledge and health for the public benefit?
What initially drew me to this role was the fact that in my first job out of university, I worked as a Journal Publishing Assistant on JNE! Even though that was years ago, it gave me a good grounding in who the BSN are and what they stand for, and I wanted to be part of the BSN at a closer level because of that.
When I saw the CEO job advertised, I just couldn't believe my luck and how much of the job description aligned with what I had been building for years to this point, and I applied straight away! I come into this role with lots of experience working across multiple membership and STEM organisations responsible for publishing, communications, advocacy, heritage and business development, and I look forward to using all of this to further the BSN's goals.
What do you wish for the BSN's future?
The most important thing about the BSN is that it is an open, inclusive, friendly and welcoming society - something that, regardless of what we do, should be at the core of all our activities now and into the future. One of my main goals is to ensure the longevity of the BSN, so that future generations will continue to benefit from all the Society has to offer. In light of that, I am exploring ways we can increase our future financial stability across a range of different areas and income sources. I am also working to make sure we have the right data, tools, technology and support available to keep the main 'engine room' activities working well as these are vital to engaging with members and keeping our grants, events and other activities going strong.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
In my spare time, I have a lot of activities and hobbies that I enjoy keeping up with. Alongside my other part-time role as Director of Publishing and Communications at the Association of Anaesthetists, and my Trustee work with Action Hampshire, I like to exercise (Pilates, yoga, HiiT classes, and walking), I play drums, I read as much as I can, I also am quite partial to a PC or console game (I identify as a 'gamer'), and generally catching up with friends and family, preferably over a plate of good food.
We are delighted to have Fran on board at the BSN and look forward to working with her to keep our welcoming, supportive Society going from strength-to-strength.
