Ruth Fenton, Stafford House Study Holidays

Describe yourself in three words or phrases.

Practical, people-focused, and resilient. I’ve spent my career solving problems and keeping things moving, often in complex, international environments. At the heart of it all is a simple belief; if you look after people properly, everything else follows. 

What do you like most about your job?

It’s the people, without question. I’ve built long-standing relationships with colleagues, agents and partners across the world, many over decades. Being part of CATS Global Schools adds another dimension to that – working with a wider network while keeping that personal, trusted approach. The culture is something I really value. Our team has confidence that if we are facing an issue, we will all work together to address it. 

Describe a project or initiative you’re currently working on that excites you.

Right now, we’re adapting how we deliver programmes in response to global shifts, from policy changes to changing student mobility. Within CATS Global Schools, this means thinking more creatively about where and how we operate, rather than relying on one model. For example, government policy, in countries such as China, has meant less students from the country are visiting the UK. We adapted by operating from our school in China instead.

We are also delivering courses from our school in Malaysia. As a project, it’s exciting as we get to work with our colleagues there but also because it has seen so much demand already.

What’s a piece of work you’re proud of – and what did it teach you?

Building Stafford House over many years and seeing it become part of CATS Global Schools, is something I’m very proud of. It’s taught me that consistency matters. Delivering what you promise, year after year, is what builds lasting trust. 

What’s a small daily habit that helps you in your work?

Staying available and dealing with things quickly. In our world, issues can arise at any time, so being responsive helps keep everything running smoothly and gives people confidence that they’re supported. 

What’s one change you’d like to see in your sector over the next few years?

Everyone working in this sector has seen how over the years, successive Government policies have made the UK and the US challenging destinations for international students. I would like to see more support for international student mobility so the sector can thrive again.

What idea, book, podcast or conversation has stayed with you recently?

I have a lot of conversations with young people these days where they express their concerns over the future, from the job market to the environment and the economy. However, what stays with me, always, is how hopeful and resilient they are, despite being so aware of the challenges ahead.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting out in this field?

Don’t overpromise. Be honest about what you can deliver and then aim to exceed expectations. That’s how you build relationships that last. In a business like ours, that really matters.