The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) has honoured two outstanding individuals who have studied at Exeter College, Ellie Pickering and Ruth Brennan, for their exemplary achievements in leadership and professional development. 

Ellie Pickering, Project Manager at the University of Exeter, has been awarded the prestigious CMI Student of the Year, while Ruth Brennan was shortlisted for the CMI Apprentice of the Year. 

During her time at Exeter College, Ellie Pickering completed the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship, incorporating the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management, and achieved a Distinction grade in her end point assessment. Ruth completed the CMI Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship and also achieved a Distinction. 

Ellie, leading the PROTECT operations team at the University of Exeter, manages a medical research portfolio involving digital development, clinical trials, data management, and project oversight. Her instrumental role in managing the PROTECT: Platform for Research Online to Investigate Genetics and Cognition in Ageing, a significant 25-year cohort study, has engaged over 30,000 participants across the UK, Norway, and Canada. Ellie’s dedication to this groundbreaking research aims to understand the impact of genes and lifestyle factors on brain ageing, with a focus on preventing conditions such as dementia. 

Reflecting on her achievements, Ellie Pickering said; 

“It feels wonderful to have been honoured with this prestigious award recognising the effort I made in learning and applying what I learned in my day-to-day work. I would like to thank my tutors, Dee Ceponis and Nikki Hayes, for nominating me for the award. Being nominated in the first place was surprising and exciting. I feel motivated to continue working in such a way that others think so highly of.” 

She continues; 

“Participating in the CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5 Diploma Course in Leadership and Management as an apprentice was transformative for me because I developed a positive and inclusive mindset along with a strong commitment to professional and personal development for myself and my team; the skills and knowledge I learned (and continue to learn) through CMI have had a tremendous impact on the work my team and I do.” 

Meanwhile, Ruth Brennan, has seen her journey marked by a determination to excel. Completing her apprenticeship has empowered Ruth to confidently transition into her current role as an Inspector of Health and Safety, utilising skills cultivated during her apprenticeship journey with Exeter College and GWR. She said; 

“I was humbled and delighted to be shortlisted for the CMI Outstanding Apprentice of the Year. The apprenticeship journey equipped me with the confidence and skills essential for my role as an Inspector of Health and Safety.” 

Ruth’s apprenticeship experience has been pivotal in developing crucial skills like emotional intelligence, active listening, and effective communication, enhancing her ability to excel in her current role. Her standout moments include honing her confidence, developing her management style, and creating a safe, respectful space for collaborative learning. 

About CMI:  

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) is dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership excellence. It supports individuals and organisations in their quest for professional development and performance improvement, fostering a community of aspiring and accomplished professionals globally. 

Find out more about professional courses at the next Exeter College Open Event. 

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