A conversation with…
Neil
HR Advisor
What did you do prior to joining Birmingham Airport?
I came from having worked at Barnardos on a fixed term contract carrying out a generalist HR and recruitment role. This was after having worked in the recruitment industry which I’d been in for over 2 and half years. Prior to that I’ve had varied roles in development, administration and also call centre management.
What attracted you to the role?
Really the opportunity to work in a busy HR department for a renowned and well established organisation. The role itself involves a great deal of variety so no day is the same as the last. It involves dealing with all elements involved with an HR generalist role whether its recruitment, development, employee relations, project work or other aspects.
Tell us about your training?
I’ve been really fortunate that Birmingham Airport has assisted me in my development by sponsoring my CIPD qualification; a recognised HR qualification. Whilst I’ve been developing academically I’ve also been fortunate to develop other skills and abilities through working in a busy HR department. That mix of academic and practical exposure has been invaluable in my development, something I can’t speak highly enough of.
So what’s a typical day for you then?
That’s difficult to answer as each day involves something different. Whilst there are tasks that frequently do need to be undertaken such as writing reports, collating statistics or minute taking, there are so many other varied aspects as when you’re working with people, you never know what to expect.
What advice would you give for potential new recruits?
You need to be customer focused, it’s our number one priority and be prepared to muck in. I think the mentality of the Company is great, as when it’s really busy we’ll help out in the Terminal or when it snows, helping with snow clearance to keep the airport open. The airport operates 24/7 and so even in an office based role there may be times when you work outside your normal hours.
So what do you like best about your job?
Although the airport has many different departments that all work together, their needs can be quite diverse so you can be working on many different things at once.
And what qualities are the most beneficial?
A calm approach I would say is a must. Working in any HR department I think you need a calm disposition as anything and everything can occur. An eye for detail along with efficient time management is a key requirement.
Are there opportunities to develop in your career?
Definitely, I started as an HR Administrator and over the past 2-3 years I’ve developed to become an HR Advisor. During that time I’ve gained greater exposure to dealing with managers at all levels and different scenarios that can occur within an HR environment.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining BHX?
Go for it, I think with many different departments that deal with different aspects of the operation, it’s a real eye opener as to what’s actually involved within an airport. Birmingham Airport is a great company to work for.