Time with the company:
12 Years.
What time did you get up this morning?
06:15am.
What attracted you to Goudsmit UK?
I was experiencing the seven-year itch in my previous job and wanted to try something new. When I interviewed for an Operations Co-ordinator position at Goudsmit UK, I thought that it was a fantastic company that could offer me a great opportunity if I worked hard. I was right, 9 years later I was appointed as Managing Director.
Describe your job in 5 words
Challenging, satisfying, frustrating, stressful, rewarding.
What does your job entail?
As MD it is my responsibility to ensure that business performance always heads in a positive direction. Growing the business, creating jobs, providing a shareholder return. Creating and developing lasting relationships with customers and suppliers. Leading, coaching, mentoring employees and supporting professional development.
What does a typical day involve for you?
My day can be quite varied. Usually at 8.00am I would plan my day and prioritise my to-do list. Then try and work through it whilst meeting the inevitable daily needs of customers, suppliers and employees. By 4.30pm I am usually adding more to the list than ticking of the completed tasks!
How did you get into this line of work?
By making the right decision to move out of my comfort zone 12 years ago and embracing everything Goudsmit had to offer me if I pushed myself and worked hard enough.
What’s the best part of your job at Goudsmit UK?
The current company culture and the team of people I work with. Securing new business and customer retention. Receiving customer feedback about the positive impact Goudsmit has on them and how this team has contributed to the success of their business.
What personal qualities are required to do your job?
Lots of patience. To always try to be empathetic to your suppliers, customers and employees. Effective decision making and the ability to make the tough calls. An understanding of multi-faceted business operations. Common sense and a pragmatic approach to problem solving.
What’s the biggest challenges you face in your job?
Time management can be a challenge, particularly when you do need to take time out of the business in order to consider the companies’ strategic direction. Stepping away from the operational side of the business and effectively delegating to the team.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
A happy workforce with a good work/life balance and of course satisfied customers. The role of MD can feel lonely sometimes and the high-pressured nature can be challenging but the rewards of success are worth it.
What’s the best piece of advice you could give to a new person joining your team?
Get involved and work hard. Listen and collaborate. Accept you are not always right and know that there are many ways to do your job and be successful.
What do you do in your spare time?
What is spare time? I am not certain I am allowed to have any spare time anymore with a 3-year-old.
What time will you get home this evening?
Hopefully before 5.30PM.
