I began my career in the Leeds group back in 1998 as an Accounts Assistant. I wanted to join a company that would provide me with on-the-job training and allow me to gain experience while supporting my desire to become a qualified accountant.
Enterprise did exactly what they said on the tin, and I soon became ACCA qualified. I was an ambitious individual and my manager at the time never tried to hold me back, instead of giving me the tools and direction to excel myself further up the career path to an Accounting Manager. I owe a lot to that manager today.
As Accounting Manager I was responsible for a department, managing a small team and all the finance functions supporting our daily rental operations. I felt I had made it, thanks to the great mentors who helped me achieve this position. Now it was my responsibility to develop a strong team and advance their careers. I found it extremely rewarding seeing them promoted under my leadership. My new position was also influenced by many of the administrative departments who broadened my knowledge of the business.
Never did I think my career would take off when I was expecting my second child! I was heavily pregnant when I was promoted to Financial Controller in Southampton, one of my proudest moments at Enterprise and a position I had only dreamed about previously. It would have been easy to self-select out given my circumstances, however, Enterprise stands true to their values and with the support from my mentors, colleagues but more so from my husband who helped me believe that relocating my family 234 miles away from a strong network can actually work.
A fish out of water, I was now holding a position as a key decision-maker, business partner to the General Manager, with 22 branches. Every day brought a different challenge and I loved the variety that came with the role. Surrounded by strong leaders I developed clear visions on how to manage a balanced business and I always had my eye on the horizon.
Shortly afterwards I stretched myself even further with a group that was double the size and relocated my family again. Moving throughout the UK and working in multiple groups has made me a much stronger person. I have learned how to adapt my communication style and also how to drive culture by being a director of change. The exciting part about working for Enterprise is the company is forever evolving and there’s no time for complacency. As a result, we work hard and we are rewarded for that.
My advice for anyone looking to join the company would be to have a pioneering spirit and whatever obstacle you see today will be different tomorrow. Find a way to make it happen not a way to say why it won’t. Go for it. Take a look at the graduate jobs we have available now.