In the world of career milestones, there are few as impressive as achieving a 38-year work anniversary. On 23rd September 2023, we celebrate our Club Manager Kathryn Cooper, whose remarkable journey at the Royal Air Force Club has spanned nearly four decades.

Kathryn’s story began as the Club's Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, a role that marked the inception of an extraordinary career with the Royal Air Force Club. Over the years, she embraced various roles, each a unique chapter in her journey. From Assistant Conference and Banqueting Manager, House Manager, Personnel and Training Manager, Assistant Club Secretary, and finally, the Club Manager from 2015 to present day.

Kathryn’s willingness to explore different departments within the Club kept her engaged and dedicated to the Club throughout her career. Among all these roles, one of her favourites was Personnel and Training Manager, a department she personally established from the ground up and watched flourish over the years, now known as People and Culture, which is the heart of recruitment, retention, and staff wellbeing. So, it is no surprise that when asked what her favourite aspect of the Club was, her answer was unequivocal - the people. Whether it's the Club's cherished members, dedicated staff, or the valued contractors, it's the human connections that have made her journey truly special.

Over the years, Kathryn has been a part of some remarkable moments, including many royal visits. From Her Majesty Queen Camilla's visit in August 2023, The Late Queen Elizabeth II who visited in 2018, to a grand royal gathering in 2015 where 12 members of the royal family graced the Club, these moments hold a special place in her heart. In 1997, The Queen Mother visited the Club and Kathryn’s daughter Natasha presented a posy of flowers to Her Majesty which is a particular fond memory.

Reflecting on the last 38 years, Kathryn has seen the Club itself transform. The fabric of the building has evolved through various refurbishments, Kathryn leading many of them. She has seen the Buttery Restaurant become basement meeting rooms, squash courts making way for new bedrooms, fitness centre and business centre, and rules adapting to the ever-changing landscape. Trustees, and staff have come and gone, but she notes that one constant remains - the Members. Some familiar faces from her early days still grace the Club, which is a testament to our dedicated membership.

In celebrating her 38th work anniversary at the Royal Air Force Club, we thank her for her continued dedicated service as we held a staff celebration in the 601 Squadron Room.