Helen Nichols

What did you do before you joined ILG?

I have been employed by ILG for the past 19 years. Prior to that I worked for a Swedish manufacturing company where I was a Team Leader responsible for a medical contract. I worked for the company for 10 years until I was made redundant when the company relocated.

Why did you join ILG?

I noticed an advert in my local newspaper for a Receptionist at ILG. I sent in my CV and was invited for an interview. To my surprise, as I had no reception experience, they offered the job to me and as they say the rest is history!

What does your job involve?

Since joining ILG in 2002 I have worked my way up from Receptionist to my current role of Facilities, Environmental and Sustainability Manager.

My job is different every day and can involve anything from fixing a leak in the roof to working with contractors planning the opening of a new facility.

I also work closely with the Health and Safety team as our areas can cross over and they are a core part of us opening up any new facilities. In the past few months I have also taken on the exciting role of Environmental and Sustainability Manager. I am looking forward to working closely with key members of the ILG team as we start our journey on gaining the ISO140001 Accreditation, as well as fulfilling our Green Promise of reducing our carbon footprint. I am in the process of setting up a committee and steering group to help achieve this and to constantly improve on these results over time. ILG has engaged with a local consultant to help guide us through this process and provide support, training and guidance to me.

What development opportunities have you had?

Whilst in my Health and Safety role, ILG has been awarded two Silver RoSPA Awards and seven Gold Awards which I am incredibly proud of.

ILG has also given me the opportunity to progress my career from Receptionist to my current role during the past 20 years. I have had numerous training courses to help me reach this, as well as the continued support and guidance from the senior management team.

I work closely with the CFO and MD in setting and managing the facilities budget as well as any new budgets for the opening of new facilities. I also work closely with current and new contractors, which has developed my knowledge and created great working relationships with different services and contractors.

“My confidence has grown and this is due mainly to the belief that the senior management team had in me and sheer determination and hard work.”

What training and development opportunities have you had at ILG?

In the 19 years that I’ve worked for ILG we have grown from just one warehouse to 13 sites. Although the company has grown to meet the demands and expectations of our clients, staff incentives are still very important to the directors and we have numerous benefits including birthday leave, staff member of the month, bonus and a health cash plan which helps with medical costs.

What advice would you give to anyone considering applying to ILG?

“If you are considering working for ILG I would say go for it, the work is fast-paced but it is enjoyable, you will be working with a great team of people. The directors have great vision and I believe with this team leading us the company will continue to grow and there will be opportunities to develop your career, so what are you waiting for!!!!”