Sam Evans

What do you do in the business?

I'm the Head of Operations at CT Skills.

What's your background?

I’ve spent the past 16 years working in the welfare-to-work and training sector, gaining experience across a wide variety of roles, from administration and partnerships to job coaching and centre management. For the last eight and a half years, I’ve been with CT Skills, where I began as a Business Skills Trainer Assessor — a role I truly loved. CT Skills supported my development by funding my CAVA and CET qualifications and took a chance on me despite my not having any formal teaching qualifications when I joined.

While on maternity leave, an opportunity arose to apply for the Apprenticeship Delivery Manager role, and I was fortunate to be successful. When I returned, I took on responsibility for the Health & Social Care and Business Skills TA teams. During the COVID period, the business underwent significant changes, and I was asked to lead the full Business Skills team, managing qualifications I had previously delivered myself. It felt like a natural fit and a great opportunity to apply my experience.

During this time, I also completed my Level 5 Operations/Departmental Management Diploma and Standard, achieving a distinction — something I’m extremely proud of. In 2023, I was asked to oversee the ASF contract as it transitioned into a remote delivery model, which I managed alongside the ADM role. This was a valuable opportunity that allowed me to draw on my previous experience managing similar contracts in other organisations. In 2024, I stepped into my current role as Head of Operations, which I absolutely love. It’s been incredibly rewarding to contribute more strategically and collaborate closely with the directors to help grow and improve CT Skills. I’m deeply passionate about the sector and driven by the impact we make, especially seeing learners succeed. Completing qualifications myself and experiencing the difference they made has made it even more meaningful to support our own learners through their journeys.

What's the best piece of career advice you've given or received?

Never stop learning. This mindset has shaped my career, and I’ve always looked for opportunities to grow through new courses and qualifications. Every day is a chance to learn something new. Step outside your comfort zone — growth often comes from challenge. Don’t be afraid to push yourself; you’ll be surprised by what you can achieve. Be someone others want to work with. Relationships matter, and being approachable, collaborative, and supportive goes a long way.