Role: Operations Director
Company: Autoline Insurance
Track Record: There is no such thing as a typical day for operations director Julie Gibbons.
HOW I BECAME AN OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Give a brief outline of your career to date?
After university I spent three years on the Graduate Programme of Marks & Spencer’s clothing manufacturer, Desmond & Sons Ltd. At the time Desmonds was the second largest private employer in Northern Ireland.
From there I moved into Management Consulting with KPMG, Dublin as part of the Business Improvement team. I then went to Rubicon Technology Inc. in Chicago as a Supply Chain Director where I learnt valuable lessons on the rollercoaster ride that was an American start-up!
When I returned to Ireland I worked for Microsoft as a Senior Project Manager before moving back to Rostrevor, Co. Down where I spent some time as a self-employed consultant.
Ten years ago I joined Autoline Insurance as Operations Director.
What was your favourite subject at school?
My favourite subjects were undoubtedly languages – Spanish and French – as well as History and English.
Did you go onto further/ higher education, if so, what did you study and where?
I studied Law & French at Queen’s University, including a year spent studying at UCL, Louvain, Brussels.
I was also very fortunate that KPMG sponsored me on UCD’s Executive MBA programme at the Smurfit Graduate School of Business.
How did you get into your area of work?
When I was consulting I undertook a Business Process Re-engineering project for Autoline and delivered several inhouse Institute of Leadership & Management courses. The MD asked me to consider joining the management team to help put the structures in place to prepare for significant growth.
I jumped at the opportunity to join an entrepreneurially led company with such a strong vision for the future.
Is this what you always wanted to do?
I always wanted to be in the thick of the cut and thrust of the business world, which I feel I certainly am. Over the last decade Autoline’s significant growth has provided the whole team with lots of learnings, opportunities and fun. We have grown from approximately 40 employees in one branch to 200 staff across five branches.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed?
The breadth of my experience across a range of sectors has equipped me well for the firm’s strong growth. My MBA was invaluable and my undergraduate degree in law has been an asset in the Financial Services sector.
Are there alternative routes into the job?
Yes – last year we launched the Autoline Academy to encourage talent within the business to ensure individuals get the development they need to fulfil their full potential. We also have a policy of promoting from within wherever possible.
What are the main personal skills the job requires?
Good listening and communication skills, resilience, determination, drive, the ability to juggle multiple projects and demands on time, analytical and problem solving skills. The ability to see the big picture and think strategically is a real advantage in a high growth environment.
What does a typical day entail?
There is no typical day! A day can vary from being in London to meet insurers or suppliers, to dealing with a vendor or employee related issue, attending project updates or board and senior management meetings or catching up with staff.
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
Without doubt the best aspect of my job is the people I work with. I am surrounded by individuals who are passionate about doing the best job they can and having fun whilst doing it. I also enjoy the variety of my role, I am involved in all areas of the business and there is never a dull moment! Not having enough hours in the day and spinning multiple plates at the one time can be quite a challenge, but having a strong team and great people around you to push things on is a huge support.
Why is what you do important?
The private sector is the engine of the Northern Irish economy.
The growth and expansion of indigenous SME companies, such as Autoline, contributes to job creation and the overall economy.
Building a business provides opportunities for talented young people across the Province – I think that’s important.
What advice would you give anyone looking to follow a similar career path?
I advise people to do what they enjoy and focus on what they’re naturally drawn to. That said, nothing beats working in an area outside your comfort zone, as that will be where you may learn the most.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you like to do?
Sometimes I think I would have liked to be a writer or an artist, but I need to be surrounded by people. Perhaps given my love of good food I could start a quirky coffee shop or restaurant where writers and artists converge!
What is the one piece of advice you would give yourself on your first day?
I was given a great bit of advice at the outset of my career at Desmonds when I was struggling with eight-hour days timing people hemming pyjamas on the factory floor – all experience is valuable. You will learn something from every single situation you find yourself in. Be humble and learn from the people around you. Never think you are better than anyone. Stamina, ‘stickability’ and likeability will also get you a long way.
Describe your ideal day off?
I’d spend it with my family outdoors. We are blessed to live on the shores of Carlingford Lough at the foot of the Mournes.
And finally, what’s the key to any successful job search?
The right fit is very important. How do your skills and knowledge fit the position, and how does the job fit you and your lifestyle? Ask yourself if you will really enjoy it – life is too short to be unhappy at work.