Cathy Kelly

Chair of the National Executive Committee  of Advance

 

I have had the pleasure of working with Jim Leonard as our Union Representative for Advance for over 20 years now, and I cannot speak highly enough of his dedication and commitment to our union and its members.

 

As a fellow union member, Jim truly understands the challenges and concerns that we face daily. He has worked tirelessly to represent our interests and ensure that our voices are heard. His experience working in our branches and his role as part of the National Executive Committee (NEC) have given him a deep understanding of the issues facing our union and the wider labour movement.

 

In addition to his role on the NEC, Jim also served as the Chair of the NEC, demonstrating his strong leadership skills and ability to bring people together. He also is a valuable member of our senior team, working closely with key stakeholders to advocate for our rights and interests.

 

One of the things that sets Jim apart as a Union Representative is his dedication to building trust and fostering a positive relationship between the union and the Bank. He played a crucial role in negotiating our Pay Deal over the years, which has led to improved benefits for all members.

 

But what truly stands out about Jim is his genuine care and concern for each and every member. He always thinks of us and our needs and goes above and beyond to provide personal support whenever we need it. He is always available to listen and offer guidance and has been a source of strength and support for many of us during difficult times.

 

Jim's commitment to Advance Union is evident in his attendance at key meetings with the EXCO and Industrial Relations. He ensures that our voices are represented, and our interests are protected in these important discussions.

 

In summary, I cannot recommend Jim Leonard enough as a Senior Union Representative at Advance. He is a true advocate for our union and its members, and his dedication, hard work, and genuine care for our well-being make him an invaluable asset to our organization.

Thank you, Jim, for all that you do for us.

 

Grant Wilson

NEC representative for South Branches

 

I have been an Advance Rep since 2016 and am the NEC Advance Rep for Branch’s South since 2020 and recently been re-elected for another term.

 

I have worked closely with Jim whilst being in South, and I am always impressed with his knowledge of Santander’s policies which helps him advise our members when they need assistance or clarification.

 

We have attended meetings together with senior management, whether it be in the boardroom, virtual or during pay negotiations. During pay negotiations Jim understands and fights what our members are hoping for as well as the impacts of the companies’ various pay offers across all the job bands. Jim is a very strong advocate of Pay Progression which he has a in depth knowledge of.

 

It is apparent from Jim’s interactions with Senior Management that they respect his views, and Jim will speak up and give his opinion when he doesn’t agree with what is being said in a well-considered, but forceful way.

 

We have known that these Elections are coming up for a while, and Jim has had time to think about and discuss his vision for leading Advance into the future as a strong, dedicated, independent Union which will always do the best thing for its members.

 

Firstly, I would urge you to use your vote when it comes through, and secondly I would strongly recommend you give Jim your support as heAr is the most suitable candidate as General Secretary in my opinion.

Nicola O'Shea

Area Representative Financial Support

 

I have had the pleasure of working closely with Jim Leonard for over 15 years as a member of the National Executive Committee and currently as an Area representative, and I can confidently say that he is an invaluable asset to Advance Union. 

 

Jim consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic that motivates and inspires those around him. Throughout the years I have known Jim, I have always found him to be honest, trustworthy, and understanding. He is someone that listens and has the members voice at the forefront of everything he does, and he is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure the success of the union. 

 

In addition to Jim’s professional skills, on a personal level he is a pleasure to work with. Jim is approachable, friendly, and always willing to lend a helping hand. 

 

We work and live in a fast-paced environment which sometimes brings challenges. During Covid Jim played an integral part through unprecedented times, working in partnership with Santander management displaying excellent leadership skills, whilst fully understanding the day-to-day challenges for our members and the Bank. There will no doubt be more challenges ahead and I truly believe that Jim is the only credible candidate to lead our union into the future. 

 

Jim is dedicated and passionate in everything that he does, he always strives for excellence, fairness, and equality. I am excited at the prospect of Jim becoming our new General Secretary, I have no doubt that the union will thrive under his leadership creating a strong and united union now and in the future for our members.

 

Overall, I pledge my full support to Jim Leonard in his bid to become General Secretary of Advance Union and cannot recommend him highly enough. Please support Jim because Jim will always support you.