John Maton, Associate Human Resource Manager
How has the staff member exceeded the expectations of their role and gone beyond the normal call of duty?
John Maton is the Human Resource manager and has worked in the Students’ Union for the past 5 years.
Although John doesn’t have a front facing role in the Students’ Union, he plays an incredibly important role in ensuring staff welfare and setting a high morale for the organisation. I think it is important to remember the sensitive and difficult nature of John’s work, dealing with human resource matters is a demanding role that requires a good attitude to customer service, good listening skills and meticulous attention to detail, which I believe is always demonstrated to a high level by this individual.
John has been central to the transformation of the Students’ Union HR systems, moving from a paper based to an online system. This has created efficient and easy to use professional tools. John has demonstrated forward thinking throughout this process.
Inspiring others and exemplifying the values of the Students' Union
How have they been an inspiration to others and exemplified the values of the students’ union?
John is highly respected in the Students’ Union. He presents experience and wisdom whilst deriving enjoyment and enthusiasm from his role. Despite his high, and often pressured workload, he continues to provide a seamlessly high service to all members of staff. He’s approachable, assertive and a great team player.
The effect of John's work
What has been the impact of their work and how has this benefited the student population or the wider community?
John’s hard work helped the Students’ Union achieve a ranking of 83 in the Sunday Times top 100 Not-for-Profit Organisations to work for and to receive the highly sought-after Best Companies One Star Accreditation. This award really recognises outstanding levels of staff engagement and is reflective of John’s commitment to creating a positive working environment for all members of staff. This is the first time that the Students’ Union has participated in the survey and Cardiff are one of only three students’ unions recognised in the top 100.
In John’s spare time, he has even been known to prepare the Sabbatical Officers for their work career beyond their term of office. Running CV workshops, interview practice and giving just general career advice.
John really exemplifies the award criteria in several categories and I would highly recommend John for this award. I feel that his commitment to the development and refinement of the Human Resource systems, along with his desire for a high staff morale shows his motivation to ensuring Cardiff University Students’ Union is a great place to work.