This interview sees us shining our staff spotlight on HR Assistant, Anna Locke. Anna has recently celebrated her 1st anniversary at Barker, so what better time to catch up with her to find out how she’s getting on and what she’s enjoyed most in her role over the last year.
Hi Anna! You joined us straight from university, what was it about the job role that attracted you? Had you always aspired to work in HR?
During my last year of university, I had started to consider a career in HR. Due to my degree being sociology focused, I found when job searching that I was lacking in the sector and practical experience that seemed to be required by other companies. I was fortunate that Barker recognised my strong work ethic and desire to learn (as in my own time I had undertaken a short HR course online) and gave me the opportunity to join the business at entry level, learning on the job- which I am very grateful for.
What does your role as an HR Assistant include?
My role means I have a close working relationship with all employees across the business, from those working at Assistant Level to our Partners. I also regularly liaise with external agencies regarding recruitment and finding new talent.
The current focus within my role is onboarding new starters to the business, I have also been given a new level of responsibility which includes completing some of their inductions which is great! Part of my job is also to assist with sending out contracts of employment, monitoring our internal HR system and the processes within it, compiling a monthly recruitment report and providing analytical details for the partners in terms of growth.
I am also very proud to say Barker enabled me to become a mental health first aider last August after I attended a 2 day course with St Johns Ambulance.
Why did you choose to come and work for Barker?
Upon researching Barker, I recognised that as a company they were avid supporters of people beginning their careers, this was demonstrated by the number of people they employ on apprenticeship degrees. Being fresh out of university, I felt I needed a company that would be willing and able to offer guidance, as well as the opportunity to progress within a role.
What have been the highlights of your last year at Barker?
I am so lucky to say I work with such a fantastic, supportive team and from this I have formed some wonderful friendships. Being able to experience the refurbishment of the office from start to finish and now getting to enjoy the end result has also been great. There have been many highs over the last 12 months, but I would also reference having my levels of responsibility increased, enjoying the team socials and welcoming new starters into the business through the onboarding process as ranking up the top!
Tell us some fun facts about yourself:
I play goal defence in netball, I danced at the Royal Albert Hall and Disneyland Paris, I am an auntie of 4, known to regularly quote Mamma Mia lyrics and I am giving up chocolate for Lent.
If you were stuck on a dessert island what would be your 3 course meal of choice after you had been rescued?
-Starter: Tomato Arancini
– Main: Five Guys Bacon and Cheese Burger with medium chips and a full fat coke.
-Dessert: My grans homemade chocolate fudge cake with cream