Can you tell us about your current role, what it involves, how long you have been with Hutchison Ports?
I have been at Hutchison Ports UK for 20 years – I started working here in 2002. I completed 17 years in the Engineering Department in several roles, starting as a day-working electrician. Within a number of years I was appointed as one of the reactive engineering team leaders (24/7 function of the department responding to breakdowns) and then over the next decade was appointed as a Works Controller, Engineering Planner and then as the Engineering Manager for one of the three main workshops in the department which looked after all of the Internal Movement Vehicles (basically, a fleet of over 200 tractor units (IT), Reach Stackers (RS) and Empty Container Handlers (ECH)).
I ended up on a major IT project within the business for several years as a Project Manager and then after another 7 years, decided to seek a new challenge which came in the form of successfully applying to fulfil the role of HPUK Stores and Inventory Manager, a function within the Procurement Department.
Two-and-a-bit years on following my move and no regrets! The work is challenging, the whole procurement team is an amazing, driven and engaged team to work with and every day still a learning day! CoVid-19 over the past three years has brought its own procurement challenges which we have overcome as a collaborative team.
Collectively, The Procurement Department is responsible for developing procurement strategies, policies, guidance and assistance in the process of acquiring goods, works and services. We are responsible for the Tender procedures and the Contract Management process. My job focusing on the Stores and Inventory side of things.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
5-10 years old: A spaceman / scientist.
10-15 years old: Not a clue! I had realised that the spaceman gig wasn’t probably going to happen…
16 onwards: To join the Armed Forces. My father was REME and at this age we talked more about his time in the Army. I enjoyed listening to the stories of camaraderie and the adventures he had. That then motivated me to research and then, ultimately apply to join.
How long did you serve in the armed forces, when did you leave?
Just short of 13 years – I was medically discharged in November 2000 following an injury.
What did your role entail?
REME VE – LADs mainly, all over the world.
What support did you receive during the transition period?
Not a lot – it was a hard transition. I wasn’t very well and had 2 years of adjustment upon me leaving. I am glad to read / see that this element is managed so much better now with far more support and help.
What initially interested you about working for Hutchison Ports, and how did you get started?
I read the advert and applied – there were terms listed in the advert which reminded me of things I had done in the army. Bit of a ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’ outlook. I was happy that I got an interview and was successful in my application.
During your career with HPUK what opportunities there have been to develop your skills and experience?
I have completed a number of courses which we would’ve classed as ‘trade training’ / ‘equipment courses’ in the Army during my time in Engineering, plus I was able to successfully complete a Post-Grad Diploma as well, all paid for by the company. Courses come thick and fast - both internal courses and external ones.
What’s the best thing about your current role?
Most definitely the team I am a part of and the impact we have on the business. We 100% punch above our weight!
There is only one Felixstowe Port and it’s the largest container port in the UK. There is only one Procurement Department and I am a part of that – Hutchison Ports UK and the work it does ultimately touches everyone in the UK and I am a part of that.
What do you think about HPUK as a place to work?
HPUK is an inclusive place to work with equal opportunities for all. One additional role I have is that I became a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. The company is very much committed to inclusivity.
HPUK also runs a successful formal mentoring programme which I have participated in both as a mentee and as a mentor. It has been extremely satisfying to be able to have input and share experiences which help people, ultimately contributing to a positive workplace culture and helping to increase engagement. My mentees are all in other areas of the business and it has been particularly interesting hearing some of the challenges that other areas face day-to-day.
HPUK has amazing opportunities for growth and is a good place to work.
What careers advice would you give to someone currently going through resettlement, trying to find a second career?
1) Do your research on the company you’re applying to – there is so much information available online. Doesn’t hurt to ask to speak to someone – If you don’t ask you don’t get!
2) An up-to-date CV – Try and use terms that are ‘civviefied’ – you have access to CV writing help, use it.
3) If you put something on your CV make sure you can talk about it – if you saved x percent and did xyz make sure you can discuss in detail what you did – a lot of interviews are competency based.
4) EVERYTHING you did in the Armed Forces is transposable to the outside world – think about some of the things you have done from a point of view of someone who has not been in the Armed Forces and how you could convey that to them.
Is there anything you wish you’d known when looking for a civilian career that you think could help those currently going through resettlement?
1) People don’t bite and if approached are more than likely quite happy to have a chat / answer questions.
2) Don’t lose faith. If you get the dream job first go, then well done. If you don’t, then keep going, keep asking, keep looking. You will get there. The skills you have learned in the Armed Forces are so good.
3) I imagine you don’t quite know (as I didn’t) just how good the personal skills you have accrued during your time in service are: Personal admin, self-motivation, determination, problem solving and ‘fitting in’ to name but a few.
4) Make best use of your resettlement package and any training you can get – you are entitled to it and have earned it!