What made you choose Arbtech?
I was on maternity leave from my previous role and was unsure whether to return, as I felt my personal growth was stunted there. I was given no responsibility or ownership and was bored with no opportunities to progress or move within the company.
An admin role came up at Arbtech’s head office, and Clare recommended me to the team. It meant cutting my maternity leave short, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
The head office team is like a second family, the company perks are endless, the management team is so supportive, and the knowledge the consultants hold between them is immense.
The company culture begins with honesty and transparency, which is refreshing. You are encouraged to speak the truth and expect it from others, you are given opportunities for growth and development, and your opinions and ideas are valued.
What do you love most about the company?
The people.
It sounds cheesy, but every person at Arbtech fits within the ‘culture’.
Every single member of the team is always genuinely happy to stop and help anyone that needs it. Nothing is too much trouble.
If you have a training issue, there is someone that will help. If you have a resource issue, there is someone that will help. If you have a personal issue, everyone will help!
Arbtech people work hard and play hard and are all such amazing individuals.
What do you do when you are not at Arbtech?
I’m part of Deeside Ladies Circle, which is a national organisation that arranges social events alongside raising money throughout the year for local charities. I’ve taken part in everything from a dog walk in the local park, to organising a beer festival and a full glam masquerade ball.
I’m also part of a book club. We meet for food every few weeks to discuss what we’ve read. I’m happy I got involved in this, as it’s pushed me to get back into reading and read genres I wouldn’t normally read.
I’m also trying to explore a new place every week with my two-year-old, as we have National Trust memberships. We also have re-started swimming, which is something I used to love.
What is your biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
Life is very short.
My dad passed away when I was 26, so at a young age, I learnt that tomorrow is not promised.
– Don’t put things off thinking you will do them later.
– If you have the means to do something you want to do right now, then just do it.
– Don’t hold on to things that don’t bring you joy.
– Make peace with yourself and others and make the most of today.
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
I think it would have to be the Liverpool social this summer when we went for a bottomless brunch followed by Ghetto Golf and then drinks in the Baltic Market.
A daytime activity is more my thing, and this ticked all the boxes. Good food, sunny skies, a bit of fun with the golf, and great company as always.
I also love the Christmas social, as the whole company is there and the atmosphere is brilliant.
Where do you want to travel to next?
I’m a bit of a home bird so, although I have been abroad and am not averse to travelling abroad in the future, I would like to explore the UK a bit more.
I think there are some beautiful places yet to discover.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
On a beach in the Maldives following a big lotto win. Failing that, I genuinely see myself still at Arbtech.
I feel like I’ve found my place. I would love to grow within the business and learn more about ecology and arboriculture as I go.
What is a goal you have for the future, in or out of work?
I would like to acquire my own home with land and possess enough property to bring in an income that will make it possible to comfortably retire early.
Donna joined Arbtech in August 2021.
