Kate Davidson

Year of Graduation: 2006

  • Course LLB
  • School University of Wolverhampton Law School
  • Nationality British
  • Career industry Bereavement Sevices
  • Current job title Chief Executive Officer
  • Current Company Dignity plc

Studying at Wolverhampton was the perfect platform for me to develop and enhance my own skills - in a supportive, friendly and authentic environment.

I really enjoyed the structure and the content of my undergraduate degree - the combination of larger lectures, small seminar groups and then additional reading and study meant that I had an opportunity to really explore the topics that I had a particular interest in. The University was always incredibly friendly, with very positive and supportive academic and support staff, and great facilities that created a really positive experience.
I think studying law at degree level has been incredibly valuable in my career. The ability to handle and understand complex arguments and situations has been a key skill that has enabled me to feel confident in handling complex problems. The law degree also enabled me to develop my critical thinking and analytical approach - nurturing a restless and curious mindset which has enabled me to push boundaries and challenge the "status quo". I also think the understanding I've gained of general commercial and contract law has also given me the ability to better understand negotiations and discussions at a high level.
In my role as Chief Executive I am responsible for representing the vision and purpose of the organisation, and ensuring that there is effective leadership of the Executive Leadership Team and the overall operations of the organisation. I am responsible for developing our strategy in connection with our board, customer, stakeholder, and colleague needs. I am required to make important decisions that affect the organisations direction, and in doing so facilitate change and address conflict within the organisation, liaising with all decision makers to achieve this. Ultimately, I am required to ensure we achieve our commercial and budget targets for the organisation, and create a positive working environment that enables the company to become a positive and rewarding employer for our colleagues.
I think one of the biggest challenges of my career, and therefore on reflection probably a highlight was leading through the pandemic. Given our place as one of the primary service providers within the bereavement profession which was, for obvious reasons at the forefront of the pandemic response, this was an incredibly difficult time for our colleagues. Not only were colleagues facing their own concerns around Covid itself, their worries for their families and loved ones at home - but also supporting families who were bereaved at an unprecedented time, with changing rules and guidelines - as a leader I was humbled everyday by the work that they did, but it became essential for me to demonstrate strong, clear and supportive leadership. I learnt a lot about myself during that time.
I would suggest that they go along, have a look around, speak to the lecturers and existing students and get a feel for the friendly and open nature of the people. I'd also encourage them to observe some taster lectures and seminars to get a feel for the friendly and supportive style of the learning.