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Olly Dawson
Grant Assessment and Management at Comic Relief
Professional Background
Olly Dawson is a dedicated and experienced grants and community development professional, boasting over two decades of impactful work in the voluntary sector since 1999. With a robust understanding of grant funding programs, Olly has played an instrumental role in the effective delivery and management of these programs, emphasizing the importance of capacity building and project delivery across various communities. His career reflects a commitment to fostering growth and development through strategic project management, meticulous monitoring, and thorough evaluation and learning processes.
In his current role as Senior Portfolio Manager for Sport for Change and Social Tech at Comic Relief, Olly leads initiatives that harness the power of sports and technology to enact social change, showcasing his innovative approach to community development. This role not only highlights his expertise in managing complex funding portfolios but also illustrates his passion for utilizing grants to cultivate positive outcomes in society.
Throughout his esteemed career, Olly has held several significant positions within reputable organizations. Before joining Comic Relief, he served as Grants Manager at Summer Uni London, where he was pivotal in developing programs that catered to the educational needs of young residents. As a Small Groups Officer at Lambeth Voluntary Action Council, he worked diligently to support various local groups in securing funding and enhancing their operational capabilities. His role as Senior Awards Officer at the Big Lottery Fund further solidified his understanding of grant-making processes, contributing to the successful funding of numerous community-led projects.
Moreover, Olly’s earlier experience as an Environmental Adviser at British Telecom allowed him to blend his interests in environmental sustainability with community engagement. His foundational role as a volunteer at the Sustainable Agriculture Food and Environment (SAFE) Alliance (now known as Sustain) reflects his long-standing commitment to supporting sustainable practices, making a positive impact on both the environment and society at large.
Education and Achievements
Olly's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of East Anglia. This educational background provided him with a solid foundation in scientific principles and environmental challenges, informing much of his subsequent work in community development and grant management. His commitment to understanding the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues has defined his professional trajectory and informed his approach to community projects.
Throughout his career, Olly has been recognized for his adept ability to manage diverse teams and foster collaborative partnerships among stakeholders. These achievements reflect both his strategic foresight and his capacity to navigate complex funding landscapes. His commitment to monitoring, evaluation, and learning demonstrates his recognition of the importance of assessment in achieving sustainable development outcomes.
Notable Achievements
Olly's professional journey has been marked by several notable achievements, showcasing his dedication to advancing community development and social innovation. He has successfully overseen numerous funding initiatives that have led to significant community improvements and enhanced the capacity of local organizations. His role at Comic Relief is particularly noteworthy, where he has played a critical part in aligning the organization’s mission with emerging social challenges through innovative funding solutions.
In addition, his tenure at the Big Lottery Fund equipped him with valuable insights into large-scale grant operations, enabling him to support comprehensive funding strategies that address diverse community needs. Each position held by Olly has contributed to his holistic understanding of the voluntary sector, reinforcing his ability to advocate for impactful community-led solutions that drive social change.
With a passion for sustainability and community development, Olly Dawson continues to inspire others in the field through his dedication and proactive approach. His extensive experience and broad understanding of grant funding, combined with his unwavering commitment to fostering social impact, make him a respected leader in the sector.
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