Business Leaders interview: Janet Gomes

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

Started my career in Retail whilst studying computer programming, I realised very quickly that I liked people more than computers, I find you get more conversation out of people, although let’s see what AI brings!

During my time in retail, I moved from Customer service assistant to Management and then into HR, the in-house training and development was fantastic, not only did  I learn so much, I grew as person, I enjoyed my time there and made many good lifelong friends.

I then had a career break to raise my children, during my break I started volunteering as an NVR (Non- Violent Resistance) Parent facilitator for CAHMS (Children and Adult Mental Health Services) , I am still registered but don’t find as much time to commit as much as I would like, I find support like this invaluable to those that need it. 

I then moved into recruitment for a couple of years whilst the children were young and now back into what I love most – HR! 

Despite the challenges currently facing the hospitality sector, I still feel it’s a great industry to work in with some the greatest and most interesting people I have ever met. 

What motivates you in your work and what do you find most fulfilling about being a business leader?

People motivate me, seeing someone grow in their role and make a success of not only the business but seeing them develop personally has to be the most fulfilling part, Retail and Hospitality offer great opportunities for people from all backgrounds and academic levels to grow. 

How did you develop your leadership skills and how would you define your leadership style?

I lead how I like to be led, mutual respect amongst your team,  talk and listen to each other, guide and support where needed

I like to think my leadership style would be to work together as a team to achieve the best results for the business through people engagement 

What do you consider to be the key component(s) of effective business operational development?

Planning and people 

Strategic planning, clear goals, strong leadership and great people to deliver, people are at the heart of making a business successful

What is or are your biggest career achievement(s)?

For me every small step has been a great achievement, each step moves me closer to the next stage, everyone should be proud of all the little steps 

How did you identify and seize opportunities for advancement in your career?

Learn from those senior to me, never stop learning, prove myself and ask for a promotion, usually works!