SHARON CARTER
WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY AT FIRE GLASS LIKE FOR YOU?
Every day is different in HR and no two days are the same. One thing I can be sure of though, is that every day will be busy. One day we can be searching for applicants to fill vacancies due the ongoing growth of the business, the next we can be supporting managers and employees through the disciplinary process, or identifying training needs and suitable courses to fill any identified skills gaps, the next processing payroll or even something as simple as helping staff and managers with booking and monitoring of annual leave.
In this role we work closely with our managers, and several external bodies including HMRC and People's Pension, so good working relationships and communications are vital.
Of late we produce a lot more in the way of statistical information, and many processes have been automated, which has been a steep learning curve, but luckily we always have Paul Cartwright and Gary Latham on hand to help.
Some days can be challenging, but I have always found my job to be rewarding; I could never imagine myself doing anything else.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love being able to help someone with a query or an issue they have and supporting them through difficult situations.
I am a very social person, so I love interactions with the staff and managers. I always go home having enjoyed the day - even when it’s been a particularly hard one!
WHAT PARTS OF YOUR JOB DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING?
Not every situation HR has to deal with is a positive one, so when you're dealing with negative situations they can be a challenge, and although people are my favourite part of the role, they can also make the role hard sometimes - just when you think you have seen it all you realise you really haven't - I have always found that fairness and consistency is the key in these situations.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS SEEKING THE SAME LINE OF WORK?
I'd say go for it! Prepare to work hard but also, get ready to reap the rewards too. It can definitely be a challenging role but it's definitely worth it.
WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?
Family and friends are the most important thing to me, and the last two years have underlined just how important spending time with loved ones is.
It doesn't matter what we do - going out for a meal, to the pub for a shandy or two, the cinema, a walk in the park (always with the dog!), or just hanging out together at home (also always with the dog!).
I've also recently joined the gym - I can't say I'm loving just yet, but I live in hope!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE BAND/ALBUM?
I can’t really say I have a favourite – I like anything from pop to country, the only exception would be heavy metal - I’ve never quite understood the appeal! If pressed, I would choose Garth Brooke’s greatest hits – it always makes an outing on family gatherings or parties, so I relate this to good times!
FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT AND WHAT?
Seafood next to a beach ideally somewhere tropical!
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL MOTTO?
Be a shepherd not a sheep!
Fire Glass UK has a network of nationwide branches and specialises in supplying fire-rated and other specialist glass and glazing. If you would like to join our team, check out our careers page for our latest vacancies. We are always looking for passionate people to help share our vision for the future.