Driving Change and Empowering Lives: Suzyo Miti Findlay’s Leadership Journey at PLUS

From Assistant Manager to Service Manager, Suzyo’s story is one of growth, resilience, and a passion for person-centred care.

Passion, resilience, and a commitment to person-centred care—these qualities define Suzyo Findlay’s journey at PLUS. As a Service Manager overseeing two services in Southwark, Suzyo leads with purpose, ensuring safe, high-quality care and creating environments where both staff and service users can thrive.

Starting Out

“I’ve been with PLUS for two years,” Suzyo explains. “I joined as an Assistant Manager, which gave me the opportunity to learn about learning disability services and apply my existing management experience in a new environment.”

Before entering social care, Suzyo worked in Human Resources, gaining valuable experience in people management, communication, and organisational processes. Due to her passion and desire to give back it led her to transition into social care. She began working in management in elderly care, specialising in Alzheimer’s, end-of-life care, respite, and complex health needs experience that strengthened her leadership, operational, and compliance skills. “Although I hadn’t worked in learning disability services before, I approached the role with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. That mindset helped me adapt quickly and succeed in the role.”

Why PLUS?

Suzyo was drawn to PLUS because of its values. “PLUS is a charitable organisation with a strong focus on supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Their vision and commitment to person-centred care aligned perfectly with my passion for social care.”

Career Growth

Her progression has been impressive. “When a Service Manager role opened up across two services—Queenswood Road and Buckingham Way—I applied, interviewed, and secured the position. It wasn’t a direct promotion, but a career move achieved through merit, experience, and transferable skills.”

Suzyo continues to invest in her development. “I hold a BSc in Business Management and Human Resource (September 2009 – June 2013), and I am currently working towards Leadership & Management in Adult Care. I also support complex health services within PLUS.”

She is proud of the milestones along the way. “Receiving an award for my hard work was meaningful. Some of my proudest achievements include transforming services into positive, professional environments, promoting high standards of professionalism, and securing funding for all service users within my first three months in the role. I have also gained the confidence and respect of my staff and have been recognised within commissioning for successfully supporting complex service users. Another milestone I look forward to is completing my qualification, which has not been easy while managing services that are highly complex in health needs.”

Training and Development

PLUS has supported Suzyo’s growth through both training and trust. “I started my Leadership and Management in Adult Care qualification within my first two years in my current role, which has strengthened my strategic thinking, leadership, and people management skills. I have also contributed to key system implementations and organisational initiatives, supporting my team to successfully adapt to digital transformation.

Achievements That Matter

Her proudest achievements? “Successfully securing funding for all service users within the first three months of my role, building loyal and motivated teams, piloting and successfully implementing new systems, and most importantly, seeing service users grow in confidence and independence. Watching individuals achieve their goals and live more fulfilling lives is what drives me every day.”

“I have achieved these goals despite not having a background in learning disability services, and I am always willing to learn, accept constructive criticism, and grow. I never allow the challenges I’ve faced to define me instead; I use both positive and negative experiences to my advantage. I am not afraid of failing; I see it as part of the journey toward improvement and success. I am also not afraid to celebrate my hard work and the progress I have made. I am not afraid of taking on new responsibilities or challenges, because I believe I can accomplish anything I put my mind to and that is something I am proud of.

Culture at PLUS

“PLUS has a close-knit culture where people have known each other for years, but it’s also evolving—becoming more dynamic and aligned with modern care standards. It celebrates individuality, values staff, and embraces diversity.”

Advice for Future PLUS Team Members

“If you want to make a real difference, PLUS is the place to be. Come with an open mind, be ready to learn, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The work is rewarding, and the organisation values passion and commitment.”

Looking Ahead

Suzyo sees big opportunities ahead. “I know my abilities and what I bring to the table. I’m confident my leadership skills will continue to open doors, whether within PLUS or beyond.”

What She Loves Most

“I enjoy the sense of purpose—knowing that everything we do directly impacts people’s lives. Building relationships, celebrating achievements, and helping individuals reach their goals is incredibly fulfilling.”