Tell us about yourself and your current role.
I’m a Senior Technical Manager (EMEA, PC) at a leading global car parts manufacturer. My role involves maintaining and improving the operational and technical standards of our on-site teams and their contractors, ensuring they have the tools and support to perform at their best. I’m part of a relatively small leadership team that has developed a strong bond since coming together. Outside of work, I have a young family (and our cat, Tom Jones), and I’m spending a lot of time transforming our house into our forever home.
Describe a typical day in your work life.
Every day is different, as I juggle multiple responsibilities. I work closely with our technical and operational teams to ensure smooth processes, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements. I also dedicate time to coaching and mentoring individuals, helping them develop their skills and grow in their roles.
How do you handle pressure or stressful situations?
I focus on staying calm and breaking challenges into manageable tasks, prioritising them based on urgency. Maintaining a clear head and open communication with my team helps us navigate pressure effectively together.
Who have been your biggest influences in life?
On a personal level, my brilliant partner, family, and a few close friends have had the greatest influence on me. Professionally, I’ve learned a lot from both past and present managers, whose valuable insights and motivational quotes continue to inspire me.
What led you to your current career path?
I started my career in my late teens in the spares department of a refrigeration company before transitioning to hands-on technical roles. I embraced opportunities as they arose and adapted to changes within the businesses I worked for. I wasn’t particularly academic in my youth, but I’m making up for that now with the support of Macro. My career has spanned multiple roles, but I’ve always remained closely connected to Facilities Management.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
I’m most proud of making the transition from technician to manager and being welcomed into the corporate environment - though Macro isn’t your typical corporate company! I still remember the exact moment I received the call offering me my first managerial role - it’s a memory I’ll always cherish.
What has been your biggest challenge in getting where you are today?
The biggest challenge has been adjusting to a leadership role and embracing the strategic aspects of the job while staying true to my technical background. It’s been a balancing act, but I’ve learned a great deal along the way.
If you had a chance, what would you do differently?
I would have invested more time in further education earlier in my career. That said, I’m catching up now, and I’m grateful for the opportunities Macro provides for continuous learning and growth.
What are the most important life lessons you’ve learned?
Resilience and adaptability are key to overcoming challenges. I’ve also learned the power of listening - people often have valuable insights, and by truly listening, you build trust and strengthen relationships.
What is one area of personal improvement you’re working on?
I’m constantly looking for ways to improve my time management. As my role expands, I strive to balance my workload without compromising quality.
What do you want to do next?
I want to continue growing in my current role and take on more responsibilities. I’m passionate about developing my team, streamlining processes, and improving efficiency. Ultimately, I hope to make a lasting impact both within Macro and in the FM industry.
What do you like about Macro?
What I love about Macro is that it’s a private company focused on long-term, sustainable growth rather than maximising short-term profits. I’ve been here long enough to see how much the company values its people, actively working to develop and progress individuals. We are committed to steady growth, exceeding expectations, and making a meaningful impact.
What do you enjoy most about your current role at Macro?
I love the variety of challenges I face each day. Whether it’s problem-solving, coaching a colleague, or improving processes, every day brings something new. The diversity keeps me engaged and motivated.
How do you drive for a better way?
I actively seek opportunities to improve behaviours, processes, and individual development. I’m always looking for ways to add value and enhance everything I’m involved in - sometimes even at the risk of wanting to change the world! I focus on moving forward and inspiring others rather than dwelling on the past.
What has been your proudest achievement at Macro so far?
My proudest achievement at Macro has been witnessing the growth of the team I work with. Seeing individuals develop and our team become more cohesive has been incredibly rewarding.
What motivates you every day?
I’m motivated by the desire to make a difference - whether it’s improving operational efficiency, developing my team, or driving positive change within the company. Progress and the opportunity to leave a meaningful impact keep me going.
What skills are essential to being successful in your role?
To be effective in my role, I need to be pragmatic, have strong interpersonal skills, maintain a technical mindset, and be a positive leader. Problem-solving and identifying opportunities are key to my success. Since my role is highly varied, I often wear many hats, and I thrive on the diversity of tasks and responsibilities.