Tell us about yourself?
I successfully completed my apprenticeship in October 2022, and then worked in the Sales team until 2023 before moving into the Sales Operations where I’ve really thrived.
What is your current role?
Sales Operations Executive
What drew you to apply at Softcat?
Whilst I was in school, I always knew that I wanted to go down the apprenticeship route to be exposed to the real world with on-the-job experience, and the ability to earn whilst I was learning. Softcat had a great apprenticeship scheme which provided all of this and more. Throughout my application process, I was researching into Softcat and discovered they were miles ahead of other companies in terms of what they were doing for diversity & inclusion, and also sustainability - both topics that were very close to my heart.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give yourself at the start of the recruitment process?
Do your research and understand the company’s five values, and demonstrate how you apply all of them in your professional and personal life. Also, despite sounding cliché, the other best advice I can give is just to be yourself! No matter who you are or what experience you have, Softcat will see your potential and help you achieve your goals. With no previous IT experience and previously being very shy - all the wrong attributes for selling IT - Softcat saw I had something to offer and helped me to grow into a much more confident person, with much better knowledge of the industry.
How has your Softcat experience been so far and is there anything you’d like to share with us which has been a highlight in your career?
I have been given so many opportunities since joining Softcat. The managers have consistently and constantly helped me to succeed and get me to where I wanted to be. My career highlight would have to be being promoted from an administrator to executive before I had even completed a full year in the team.
If you have moved in your role whether that is within the team or inter departmental, could you please share your experience about the support that you have been given?
Both my old manager and new manager helped my transition to be as smooth as possible. The management truly care about your happiness, and will always encourage you to make the best possible decisions for you to develop. Softcat also offers a wide range of training and development opportunities to help all employees grow and advance in their careers. This includes everything from in-house training programmes to external courses and certifications.
What advice would you give someone thinking about joining Softcat?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions - and be your authentic self throughout the entire interview process.
Are you a part of any community currently?
Yes. I’m involved in the Pride network, Supporting Women in Business (SWIB) network, and the Green Team; all of which have exposed me to so much knowledge and developed me in my personal growth.
What do you enjoy the most about being part of these communities?
Surrounding myself with like-minded people and being able to make a real difference.
What are you most proud of in your time at Softcat so far?
Being awarded Apprentice of the Year accolade in 2022.