My alarm goes off at…
6.05am but I always lie in for another 5 minutes and get out of bed by 6.10am.
The first thing I do is…
take the cockerpoo, Mabel, outside to do her business.
I prepare for the day ahead by…
having my vitamin C, supplements, a cup of Yorkshire tea and then checking my phone for emails and messages.
I can’t leave the house without…
three bags and the dog.
My typical day…
Every morning, I am the first one in. My first jobs are to make sure the direct debits are run, check the OMJ, review all orders emailed overnight and check for any emails to action.
Most of my day is spent taking orders, quoting prices and negotiating, as well as calling those who have lapsed, or canvassing for new business, much like the rest of the team. The customers have built up massively over the years.
I have always believed that leading by example is the best motivator. I’ve tried to create a good team spirit with a personable and approachable style of management.
I manage the top accounts with the team, and ensure they are regularly ordering. I also fit tank monitors for customers as and when required. I debt collect those customers who are slow with payment, and, on a daily basis, chase the accounts which are due, and manage the credit control side before releasing the orders for scheduling.
I’m very hands-on in all roles to ensure the day runs smoothly and any customer queries are answered that day and, if a visit is required, then I am straight there.
I offer technical advice on the additive and lubricants market and upsell to those in need. No call is the same and that is why I love this industry – 32 years later and counting, right back to the basics of the oil industry and providing the ultimate in customer service.
My most memorable work moment…
starting Quad Fuels back in January 2017, with just an office, the best sales team and the drivers recruited – waiting for the first call in on the phone which was a very proud moment!
The worst part of my job…
letting customers down if the fuel supply or refinery has outages which means we can’t load – I find this gets to me the most.
The best part of my job…
daily catch ups with customers on the phone – they ask for you by name and you have such a great rapport with them. It is a joy to speak to them and offer them the best, quality service.
I relax after work by…
walking the dog, going in the hot tub with a glass of wine, or sitting in our outside bar (which we have recently built in the old doghouse!) with my husband, or catching up with the family and two grandkids.
My favourite meal is…
I just love food as everyone can confirm who knows me. I love eating out, either with a good full English breakfast or, if I’m good, its salmon, avocado and a poached egg on a thick bloomer toasted bread or eggs benedict.
On my bedside table…
is always a good book to read before bedtime – usually a physiological thriller. It helps me switch off and get to sleep.
The last thing I do each day is…
set my alarm for the following day and snuggle down with Mabel.
Image credit: Andrea Pitts