Gillian Bray

How would you describe your day-to-day role?

I manage the Human Resources function and global HR team. My role is to oversee the implementation of projects and processes in line with our people objectives. In any given day I could be collaborating with the team on anything from recruitment to wellbeing to L&D and I&D.

What led you to choose a career in this field?

In short, I didn’t! I fell into HR which I think is quite common in our industry.

What convinced you to apply for your current role?

I began working in the Office Management team and fairly early on in my time with the company, was given the opportunity to work in HR.  I loved it from the start; the variety in the role and the chance to be at the heart of people's issues was really appealing to me. The company supported me through the CIPD qualification, and both the company and I have grown together over the years.

What’s the most exciting part of your role?

Seeing the work required to bring about true change come to fruition; enabling us to improve the way we recruit, develop, and reward our people. The implementation of new systems that change the way we work for the better. Change is notoriously hard, but it is so worth the effort!

What’s the most challenging part of your role?

There’s always a lot going on which is exciting but also a challenge. I can plan my day or week perfectly then a bunch of issues come out of nowhere and my priorities change. However, I really enjoy the firefighting element of my role. Being able to pivot to solve people’s issues there and then is rewarding for me.

How is working where you are now different from previous roles you’ve had?

I am in quite an unusual position these days of having worked for the same company for over 20 years. Earlier in my career I was in the middle of the ‘day to day’ and now I oversee the ‘day to day’ whilst helping the team to deliver their responsibilities and projects.

What is your greatest accomplishment since starting out?

My greatest accomplishment is my team. For many years, HR at Alfa was a team of two and even one at some points. We now have a global team of ten who each bring something different to the table. I am amazed at what we can achieve together.

What hobbies do you have outside of work?

I sing with a choir called Some Voices which takes up a lot of my time as we have a number of large performances every year. As well as that, I love to cycle, ski and swim. I am also obsessed with my dog who is a very cute Romanian rescue; not sure that’s a hobby though!

If you could describe your day in three words, what would they be?

Varied, full on, rewarding. 

What’s the best piece of advice you would offer to future women in their careers?

Network, network, network. There are so many free and accessible opportunities to be inspired by and learn from other women. A simple Google search of ‘women’s networks’ brings up lots of great options.