Introduction to the board: Interview with Andrea McCarthy

You’re one of the newest members on the Venners Board. How do you plan to make a difference in the company?

It is not that long ago since I was a new stocktaker out in the field and although things change in hospitality at a rapid rate, I believe that I am equipped to help guide the business into the future. To aid in this I am undertaking a CIPD qualification at the current moment, to ensure that we are excelling in our Human resource and talent management within the business. We have begun this process with all managers going through training on mental health for employees and the introduction of our Health and Wellbeing Policy.

As one of three Operations Directors, you’re always on the lookout for new recruits. What types of individuals do you look to attract for a stocktaking role?

For me the person and their attitude are the most important things I look for and I always take note of any high-quality soft skills stocktaking applicants show. The skills that I am most interested in are analysis, communication, and customer service. Since processing a stock take is an incredibly methodical task this is also an important ability that I hope to find in anyone who applies for a role at Venners.

How much focus is there on training and progression opportunities in the business?

As a business which places great value on career development and providing opportunities for internal promotions, training and progression are key focuses for our business strategy. It is important that we aid every employee in achieving their full potential. Thanks to the diversity of the business we can give employees opportunities to expand their skills and gain experience in a variety of different environments, as well as a variety of different projects and groups.

How would you describe the Venners culture?

We are a field-based company with over 80% of staff living in all different areas of the UK, but although we are spread the length and breadth of the country, we really are a family. From being a stocktaker through to my management career, there has always been someone there if I needed them for help, support or guidance.

What is Venners’ take on Corporate Social Responsibility?

Even though we are a small business we believe in contributing to societal goals. We are active contributors to the Licensed Trade Charity, and are involved with Only a Pavement Away, helping the homeless into the hospitality industry. We are consistently looking for new initiatives, to reduce our carbon footprint, like looking at a reduction of paper consumption and utilising our workforce effectively to reduce traveling.