Katie works as our Sales Operations Manager in Lenham, overseeing our sales team and supporting them in their processes and development.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
Every day at Aliaxis is different - what I'm doing on a Wednesday could be completely different to what I'm doing the following Wednesday. This is perfect for me, as I like being challenged, and if I'm not challenged, I'm bored! I travel to our different sites every few months to meet with colleagues or have hands-on training. I also go out to visit our customers to better understand their requirements and to build those vital relationships.
How long have you been with Aliaxis?
Twelve years! I had decided to make a change following the birth of my daughter, as I was working long hours and was rarely home before her bedtime. I then started as a Customer Service Sales Manager for Aliaxis in Lenham, admittedly with the assumption I would only be there for a couple of years. But here I am over a decade later! I love working here. I love the people, the variety in my role and I feel supported by the business. There is no greener grass for me!
Was this your first role in this industry?
This was my first role in the industry, and honestly this job has made me realise how much of a nerd I probably am! I love learning how things work and at Aliaxis I actually get to see those processes from start to finish. The manufacturing side of the business might not be directly related to my role, but I find it so important to understand the processes we have in place – if I can understand what goes into our products that make them the high standard solutions they are, I can translate that to my team.
Do you enjoy travelling for your job?
Even though it is optional, I like travelling. I love meeting people face-to-face – I just find it easier and nicer! It is really important to put a face to a name, both with my colleagues but also with my customers. It also fits in with my family life as well, thanks to the option for hybrid working and ability to align my schedule with my colleagues. I think things like this are a very positive step forward for not just the industry, but the world of work as a whole.
What did you want to be when you were younger, and has that changed?
I wanted to be an artist when I was younger, and whilst I still love art as a hobby, I soon realised that I didn’t enjoy it as a job. However, I did learn that I absolutely love talking to people, finding out what they need and how I can help them. And that’s the thing, no one ever tells you about this industry in school, let alone all of the departments that sit within it like marketing, sales, finance and customer support that offer so much opportunity and growth.