We introduce you to our latest member of the team, Sarah. Sarah has joined our team as one of our Client Account Managers. Sarah has been out and about recently meeting with clients, attending networking events and even 2 expos! She has had a great response from many of our clients here at The Unite Group.
We recently had a chat with Sarah to find out a bit more about her and her role…
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to be an engineer. I was the first girl in our secondary school to do technology as an option. Initially, being the only female was a bit daunting. But I soon learned how to handle myself! My first project at 14 years old was designing an alarm system for the whole school. For various reasons, I went into optics when I left school and later became a registered ophthalmic dispensing optician. My love of technology has played a part in my career.
What is your role at The Unite Group and how did you end up where you are now?
My role at The Unite Group as a Client Account Manager is to develop strong trusting relationships with both existing and new clients. A vital part of this is listening being empathetic, proactive, authentic, and trustworthy.
I was looking for a new opportunity that really involved making a difference every day. A former colleague of mine was chatting with Paul (one of the directors). He mentioned that he was looking to expand the team, so she recommended me. I met Paul and Dean for a casual chat, and the rest, as they say, is history. After just 30 minutes, I knew that this was a company I wanted to be a part of. I loved their integrity, openness, honesty, culture, and banter from that first chat.
What does a typical day look like at The Unite Group?
My typical day starts with checking emails and messages. Then, catch up with the team and follow up on client projects and issues. Most days, I will have a couple of client meetings, do some research into new solutions and then finish off with any admin for the day. Every day is different, and sometimes you get something unexpected pop up which adds to the mix – in a good way!
What is your most and least favourite part of the job?
My favourite part is that I love working with my clients to help them achieve the best solution that fits their business requirements; no two companies are the same, and the individuality of each account motivates me. Having clients from varied sectors means there is always something new to learn and share.
My least favourite going through my email inbox after a holiday; you just never know what you will find!
What is your greatest achievement?
One of my proudest achievements is being a top 10 finalist in the British Franchising Awards in 2009. It was out of 35,000 national franchisees. I was interviewed by a panel of six at HSBC headquarters in Canary Wharf, one of which was the late Sir Bernard Ingham; it was incredibly daunting but exhilarating all at the same time. Whilst I didn’t win, it was such a privilege to have made it to the final. This was a result of my exceptional client retention and my innovative technology-based solution that significantly streamlined and enhanced my business.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
On a professional level, I’d love to have more responsibility within the company and expand my knowledge base; I’m fascinated by AI and how it can develop in a commercial setting.
Personally, I’d like to have a traditional cottage with land to grow all my fruit and veg and a little pop-up restaurant that would feed my love of cooking for people on an ad hoc basis.
How do you unwind outside of work?
I love cooking, and I’m halfway through writing my 5th recipe book – so lots of creative cooking happens in our house! Cooking and recipe creation my happy place! Beyond that, we love walking our dogs on the beautiful Northumberland beaches where we live.
If you would like to learn more about how Sarah and our team here at The Unite Group can help you with your business technology needs, call us on, 0191 466 1050 or email us at info@theunitegroup.co.uk. We would be happy to discuss how our services could improve your company’s efficiency and take the headache of tech away from you.
Have you received great customer service from Sarah or another member of our team recently? Why not leave us a Google review and let us know about the service you received!