We caught up with Kelly Raines, our site manager at a prestigious customer site in the heart of London, to talk about everything from gender equality, women in the workplace, to life at Bidvest Noonan.
Can you describe your best day at Bidvest Noonan?
My best day was when my team and I won big at the Bidvest Noonan Annual Awards. We took home an Outstanding Performance award along with ‘The Overall Best Managed contract Award’. It was a great day for us and I remember we were all very excited and happy. I am fortunate to work with such an amazing and hard-working team.
You have been in the business for a long time, how do you think women in the workplace make their mark?
Women bring a strong skill set that enhances communication within our teams. We are hardworking and feel that we have more to prove. I feel that women are overall very supportive, accepting, and easy to communicate with. I believe what makes a difference is when we clearly outline what we want and are not hesitant to ask difficult questions.
Have you noticed any new incentives in working with the company that attracts women to roles?
Yes, it has been lovely to see that the company is taking initiatives to make the workplace more inclusive and comfortable. For example, the menopause support toolkit outlines how colleagues going through menopause can be supported.
What changes do you hope to see toward gender equality in the upcoming year?
I know that equality and diversity are very important for the business and we have been doing great work. One thing I would like to see is a change in people’s perceptions of women in security as a whole and show them that the job entails more than providing a security service; it also involves having an impact on people’s daily lives and providing exceptional customer experiences.
Who or what has inspired you the most?
My mother raised my sister and me alone when I was younger. I was motivated to support her and show that women can accomplish the same tasks as men.
What’s your motto in life?
My motto is “you only get out of life what you put in”. You must demonstrate to both yourself and others your strengths and how, with enough effort and patience, you are capable of achieving your dreams.
