Anna Keach landed her top job at travel firm Carlson Wagonlit after seeing
an advertisement in Personnel Today, and hasn’t looked back since.
She was looking for a generalist HR job, but was determined that any
potential role would be backed by a company that valued HR as part of the
mainstream business.
"I was first attracted to the role by an indication within the advert
that HR had an integral part in the success of business," she explains.
Keach was impressed by the company’s bold advertising strategy and decided
to respond to the ad, which was designed by agency Ward Diamond.
"I thought the advert was unique in both the caption and the picture. I
felt it was quite controversial and indicated a business that was willing to go
against the norm," she says.
Her main responsibilities involve handling issues relating to TUPE, redund-ancies,
counselling and disciplinary cases.
She is also heavily involved in policy development, induction, interviewing,
compensation and benefits, training, and some ad hoc project work.
Keach joined the group from the Legal Services Commission, where she worked
for four years. However, she says her new role is much more business focused.
"My new role is more ‘hands on’ rather than consultative, and this
allows you to ensure real HR issues are addressed. The job involves travelling
around the country and meeting the employees face-to-face.
"I hope the move enables me to develop my generalist HR knowledge
through this hands-on approach to supporting the business. I want to show that
I can provide expert, yet practical, service to the business," she adds.
Keach was interviewed for the position by several senior HR staff –
including the HR director for Northern Europe.
She has this tip for success: "Be clear about why you want this
specific role and why you will be an asset to the business. This encourages
confidence and enthusiasm during the interview."
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