Time with the company:
9 years.
What time did you get up this morning?
06.15am.
What attracted you to Goudsmit UK?
It was the challenge of something new in an industry that I had an interest in. I hadn’t settled on a career after leaving university, but when I saw a position available with Goudsmit and after attending my first interview I knew it would be the right move for me.
Describe your job in 5 words
A little bit of everything!
What does your job entail?
As Business Operations Manager I have a senior role in the company. My main responsibility is to oversee the operations department at Goudsmit UK. Overall I make sure that the team are running as well as they possibly can to ensure smooth efficient service that exceeds the expectations and needs of our customers.
What does a typical day involve for you?
Everyday has its own set of situations, and sometimes it can be like walking into a new job each morning. My first priority each day is to review my emails with a much-needed cup of tea. As our production facilities are located in China and due to the time difference, most of our communication is received in overnight.
After this, I will prioritise my tasks for the day. These will vary throughout the month from managing the day-to-day activities of the Operations team, analysing stats and reporting for our monthly performance metrics or working with the Managing Director to develop a strategy for improvement. But sure ‘Variety is the spice of Life!’
How did you get into this line of work?
I studied Geography in university and always thought that I would move to America and work for the US Geological Survey, but life got in the way after graduating and I needed to start working. My first job was in bank, and then I moved to a company that installed renewables. It was this job that sparked an interested in technology and engineering, which guided me to this position.
What’s the best part of your job at Goudsmit UK?
The best part of my job is having the freedom to express myself. I can laugh when I need to destress, I can speak and know that I am being heard, and I can perform, not just because I am paid to do it, but because I am inspired to be the best. The Goudsmit team have become part of my family, and I am so fortunate to have this opportunity.
What personal qualities are required to do your job?
The ability to multi-task, Good communication and leadership skills, be process oriented with an eye for quality and the ability to work under pressure.
What’s the biggest challenges you face in your job?
Finding the fine balance between being organised but being able to be adaptable. Things change, priorities change, and you must be prepared for the ever-changing environment within operations.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I know I can make a recognisable impact on critical elements of Goudsmit UK’s success.
What’s the best piece of advice you could give to a new person joining your team?
Take the time to get to know your colleagues. Understand their role and the part they play within the bigger picture, but also get to know them as a person.
A company that works well together has the most success together. When you enjoy working with your colleagues and look forward to interacting with them, everyone benefits.
What do you do in your spare time?
I have a 5-year-old son, so my spare time belongs to him! I do love travelling and have family and friends in America, so do try to get at least 1 foreign holiday per year.
Any fun / interesting facts about you?
I am proud to say that I won the Butlin’s Milupa Bonny Baby Contest in 1985, and I have a Blue Peter badge!
What time will you get home this evening?
After picking up my son from his grandparents, I should be home around 5.15 – 5.30pm
