HR manager at Core Management Logistics
I admired the way HR empathised with me and understood my frustration while I was going through a redundancy restructure at PwC. This was what sparked my interest in pursuing a career in HR – the team was just so empathetic, efficient and assertive through the whole process.
Having a positive work-life balance is a challenge. I consistently give my all when I’m working but, as soon as close of play on Friday comes around, it’s family time. However, CML is a 24/7 business so I don’t completely shy away from work-related technology in the evenings and at weekends – I always keep an eye on things because I really enjoy my job.
HR should always listen to both sides of the story before coming to a conclusion or taking action; this is the only way to achieve positive outcomes for all parties involved. Anyone new to HR should try not be intimidated by managers, especially those who are well established, and to remain neutral as much as possible. Some managers and directors just don’t understand HR’s perspective in situations – they may think HR interferes too much, without perhaps fully understanding the benefits we can bring to a challenging situation.
I feel we have a responsibility in HR to be as strategic and proactive as possible. We are building a new executive team to develop our strategic plans and it’s exciting to be involved in this. I think HR will become more proactive and strategic in the future, and have a greater influence on decisions made by the board such as transformational business strategies. This would mean those of us in HR would be getting more out of our jobs – which can only be a positive thing.
I have a qualification in interior design from City & Guilds. I love to redecorate and redesign my home – so much so that, before I started my career in HR, I was considering becoming an interior designer.
CV
Jaki Tate began her career as an administrator, and started in HR aged 28 after she was made redundant. She has since worked as an HR manager at Reliance Security Services, and completed a postgraduate diploma in HR and a master’s degree in HRM while working at Signature Senior Lifestyle as HR manager. She joined Leicestershire-based CML in 2014.