Key Account Manager

"There are three criteria for me for an enjoyable job: the people I work with, good opportunities to develop my skills and working in a challenging environment. Working at G4S has fulfilled all of these criteria and everyday presents new challenges and new opportunities to develop myself and the business."

I wanted to join a business that was large enough to offer me a wide range of experiences and roles, as well as one that valued autonomy at a lower level. Although this can be applied to many businesses, what made G4S stand out was the calibre of the people I met and the refreshing level of honesty I was shown.

My experiences with G4S have been wholly positive - right through from the induction period to where I am now. During the two week induction process I was able to meet people from across the business and really start to develop a network of key contacts. As well as this I had the time to learn the core business systems and processes in a training environment rather than "on-the-job", as I had done in so many other jobs.

In my current role I am responsible for our operational Security business and report directly into the Managing Director of Northern Ireland. Much of my work focuses around establishing exactly what our clients want to do and then working with my operations and business development team to ensure that we deliver a solution that not only meets their needs but is also financially viable for us. The most rewarding part is that I have the opportunity to see things through from conception to completion and the level of autonomy that I am given is fantastic, while also knowing that there is a support network of expertise and resources that I can tap into if I need it.

Every day is different and challenges come both in terms of the size and complexity of work streams, as well as the inevitable curve balls that come with working in a "people" business. That said I have a well trained and professional team working for me and while I will not deny that there have been a few late nights at least I have been surrounded by good people!

There are many opportunities to develop your skills and abilities within the business and I am currently studying for a Leadership and Management qualification through Worcester University. There are other training opportunities delivered throughout the year in the form of group training sessions, as well as all employees having online access to training material provided by Harvard University.

In terms of who the job would and wouldn't suit, I would say that if you are an innovative thinker, have a positive attitude, enjoying working with people and have the confidence to make decisions on your own then you will do well. If you enjoy routine, predictability and early nights, then this may not be the career for you!