Q & A with Keith Hoyland - Deputy General Secretary
Q: What’s your go‑to, coffee or tea?
A: An Americano with a splash of milk. I’ve been told this means I like life strong… but with just enough smoothness to take the edge off.
Q: What’s one small thing that always makes your workday better?
A: People. Grabbing five minutes to decompress with a teammate—especially when we’re dealing with challenging situations—can completely reset the day.
Q: If you could instantly learn a new skill, what would it be?
A: A foreign language! I’m not fussy which one, perhaps Spanish as I just want to get beyond confidently saying “Gracias” and smiling.
Q: What’s your favourite way to unwind after work?
A: Honestly? Shouting the answers at The Chase. The TV never answers back, and occasionally—I’m even right. 😊
Q: What song do you secretly (or proudly) have on repeat right now?
A: No secrets here—I’m fully back in my Bruce Springsteen era. “Dancing in the Dark” is getting some serious airtime.
Q: What’s the best meal or snack you’ve had recently?
A: A mind‑blowing Halibut & Chips from Trenchers Café in Whitby. Simple, fresh, and absolutely unforgettable.
Q: If you weren’t doing this job, what would you be doing instead?
A: In another life, with completely different training, I’d love to be a psychotherapist. The human mind fascinates me.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: Very early bird. I’m in the gym by 6:30am sometimes—which surprises even me some days.
Q: What’s one app, tool, or shortcut you couldn’t live without at work?
A: Right now? Co‑Pilot. It’s brilliant for helping me structure content—but you still have to keep it on its toes as it can totally invent things.
Q: What’s a hobby or interest people might not know you have?
A: I’m a collector of niche fragrances. I once owned around 400 bottles collected over 15 years. I’ve since downsized to a “modest” 150… which still feels like a lot!
Q: What’s your ideal weekend like—busy or doing absolutely nothing?
A: As close to nothing as possible. Total decompression mode.
Q: What’s the most‑used emoji on your phone right now?
Q: Probably just the classic 🙂. It works for nearly everything.
Q: What’s a TV show, podcast, or book you’d recommend to everyone?
A: Any Terry Pratchett book—genius. And for TV, Two Doors Down never fails to make me laugh.
Q: What’s one place you’d love to visit (or revisit)?
A: San Francisco. I left my heart there and would love to go back.
Q: Describe your work style in three words.
A: Balanced. Reasonable. Supportive.