In the latest Lord Combustion Services staff profile we speak to Marie Alebon, from the accounts team, about her work, the enjoyment she gets from working across the financial side of the company and the varied customer base which the business supports each month.
What are the main responsibilities in your role?
I work in the accounts department. My role covers everything from raising sales invoices to creating reports on the financial performance of the company. I also oversee the payroll and the payment of suppliers as well as keeping on top of the cashflow and yearly returns.
Who do you work with directly in the Lord team?
Myself and my colleague are responsible for the accounts. I work mostly for Managing Director Stuart Smith and the directors. I also link up with all the different teams here, including the field based engineers to keep on top of what is being delivered for customers. I also liaise with anyone who deals with suppliers. I like the variety of the job.
What jobs did you have before you joined Lord?
Since leaving school I have worked for different companies in accounts. My first job was with Lloyds Bank. I have always worked in financial roles, including a time at the Birmingham Evening Mail. I have experience of different sectors working in finance and accountancy.
What is a typical day in your role like?
I speak to colleagues, customers and suppliers on a regular basis. I raise customer invoices and organise the payment of supplier invoices. It can be quite a varied role, dealing with queries from suppliers and managing the customer payments side of the business.
We support a range of premises from churches and hospital sites to assisted living accommodation, commercial properties and schools. When it comes to invoicing our services are tailor made to meet some of our customer specific requirements. Over time I have got to know the customer needs and therefore able to provide them with the required information. Clients appreciate that Lord will be there for them in an emergency, which means a lot to them.
Which skills did you bring to Lord from your previous work?
I have a level 3 NVQ in management and have built up extensive experience of software. I have also built up my knowledge in my roles.
What do you enjoy about working for Lord?
Even though it can be pressurised there is satisfaction from knowing you have done a good job and my work is appreciated by the directors. They appreciate how hard we have all worked. We enjoy our work and we get the job done. I also know I can go to the directors to resolve any problems.
What is the best bit of advice you would give somebody starting at Lord?
You have to enjoy your role and get satisfaction from your work. If you have a problem, you can speak to somebody, and they will help. A problem shared is a problem halved here at Lord. It is a business where you can get a great deal of satisfaction from what you do.
What has been your most pleasing accomplishment working for the company?
When I first started at Lord I wanted to add more structure in the department. As part of my role I created a more organised system to get things working better on a day to day basis. It has allowed us to keep on top of things, which is something I am proud of.
What can be the most challenging parts of the job? How do you address these challenges?
Because we are so organised and on top of things, end of the month tasks can be challenging because we are working to a deadline. Being organised helps us to focus on the tasks ahead, prioritising the work every month.
What are your interests outside of work?
I have three grandsons aged between two and eleven. I try and spend quality time with them every week. I like travelling abroad and in the UK. I enjoy reading and going for long walks on the weekends with my two dogs. My eldest grandson has started playing football so now go and watch him playing at home and away. I am now learning about football and all the rules, which is fun.