Bev

I have a PA and office management background. I enjoyed learning languages so when I was younger my dream was to work abroad, and I lived in Paris and Brussels until I was into my mid-20s. After coming back to the UK, I worked in several PA-style roles at different companies and was working as an Office Manager in York, then moved into Bellrock after it acquired the business.

A big turning point came just before the pandemic, when Bellrock offered me a new post as Assistant Insurance Manager with the opportunity to work from home. It was a bit of a culture shock to start with, and there have been times where I’ve missed being in the office and surrounded by people, but I’ve fully embraced it now!

I was a languages girl so never envisaged myself in a career that revolves around dealing with numbers. After falling into it somewhat, I am pleased to say it has worked out well and that I enjoy what I am doing. I am still learning the various intricacies of the insurance industry and have always enjoyed learning new things – being challenged is motivating to me.

Working from home took some getting used to, simply because I had always been office-based and used to doing things for people, being around people and looking out for others.

The pandemic was a difficult period as my husband was working away full-time so I had to balance working from home and schooling two children. Now we’re over the hill with Covid, I can fully appreciate being able to coordinate home and working life. I can start early, get the kids to appointments if needs be, all while being able to get everything done at work. However, I still like the formality of a work environment and usually dress smart for the office (my dining room!) even when working from home.

Bellrock is a brilliant example and things have come a long way since I started out. Previously, the thought of going part time and moving to a four-day week was seen as a radical concept.

I think the pandemic acted as a big catalyst for change at a societal level. Although it was a very difficult time, some silver linings have come of it in that employers are now much more aware and accommodating of people’s personal lives.

Today, no questions are asked, and we have fully embraced flexibility and the needs of working mothers such as myself. Bellrock has been excellent at supporting families and, despite being a big company, you never feel like you’re lost in a sea of people.