Helen Rana
Helen Rana
Originally from Dursley, I now live in Emersons Green, South Gloucestershire and work as a freelance writer, researcher and editor with universities, museums, research and cultural organisations. I was a Writer Associate in creative writing at Bath Spa University in 2017-21. My short stories have been published in anthologies and I have received a number of awards for my screenplays.
My book ‘Workplaces: The impact of workplace culture on individuals and organisations’ provides an amusing, entertaining and sometimes shocking peek into the world of work. I recount episodes from my varied working life, including at the Finnish Embassy, international investment bank JP Morgan and African Non-Governmental Organisation ZARD, highlighting important points about the realities of work and the effect workplace culture has on strategy, leadership, individuals and outcomes.
I am also studying for a PhD at the University of the West of England. My research question is: ‘How do English Country House Owners use Storytelling to Achieve Business Outcomes?’ I am investigating how country house owners use their family histories to create a brand, attract visitors, sell products and services, gain support from other stakeholders, and achieve business outcomes.
I am a member of the South West Museum Development Strategic Advisory Group and the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council’s Peer Review College. I am the Secretary of Downend Community History and Art Project, and wrote the story of my local area on the historical map we have produced. I am also the Media and Development Adviser for Bristol Rock Centre (a local music school).