Amy Bates has been rewarded for her positivity, productivity and professionalism – proof that she landed firmly on her feet in a new role at Redrow Homes.
Initially Amy was devastated when she dislocated her knee just two months into her new job as a sales consultant for Redrow.
But it turned out to be a lucky break for the Liverpool graduate who was offered an alternative office-based role with Redrow – and has now won Employee of the Year exactly 12 months after it began.
“I had only been doing a sales consultant’s job on site for a couple of months when I fell and had to take four months off work,” explained Amy. “But I was so desperate to get back and be doing something that I was offered a desk job at Redrow’s divisional headquarters in Chorley, Lancashire.
“Then after a few months here someone left and I was offered the chance to interview for the role of sales coordinator and I got it.”
And it was that role for which the 23-year-old from Woolton, Liverpool, was given the title of Redrow Homes (Lancashire) Employee of the Year for 2017.
“It was such a surprise. I was overwhelmed to be honest,” she added. “But obviously delighted. I was given the award a year to the day from when I got the job, which was a wonderful way to celebrate.”
Amy first joined Redrow on its graduate scheme in October 2015, after gaining a degree in history and politics, and she started her career selling new homes at Redrow’s Heritage Brook development in Buckshaw Village.
“After my accident I was desperate to get back to work so I was delighted when Redrow invited me to help out in the office – and I’m still here.
“It’s hard to explain what I do to someone who isn’t directly involved, but it’s a bit of everything. I deal with all the administration associated with the reservations that come through, contract exchanges and completions, including liaising with the legal team.”
And she clearly excels. Asked for nominations for Employee of the Year, colleagues in a variety of departments, not just sales, were quick to praise Amy’s cheerfulness and positive attitude, as well as her efficiency, professionalism, initiative and a host of other qualities.
“It’s lovely to hear such comments,” added Amy. “I was overwhelmed to win the award but I’m not a person who comes into work, goes through the motions and then goes home; I like to do my best and like being productive and the award made me feel valued, that I have proved my worth. “I would love to progress with Redrow but, for now, I really enjoy the job I am doing.”
Steve Greenhalgh, managing director of Redrow Homes (Lancashire), said: “Amy is always smiling and helpful, even when she is under the most severe pressure, and she is renowned for always getting the job done first time – you never have to ask twice.
“She is an asset to the company; professional, competent and, as so many people told us, a joy to be around.”
Amy was awarded a certificate and cash prize. “I haven’t spent the money yet because I want to spend it on something that I wouldn’t normally buy myself but, to be honest, the award was the main thing – the cheque was a lovely and much appreciated bonus!”
