In this interview, we are pleased to speak with Suzanne Charman, the Office and Health & Safety Manager at Goss. Suzanne has been an integral part of the company for nearly two decades.
Suzanne’s extensive experience and deep connection to the company have given her a unique perspective on the evolution of the business and the dynamics of working within a family-run enterprise.
We will explore both the professional and personal aspects of her journey at Goss, uncovering the insights and experiences that have shaped her career and personal life.
When did you first start working for Goss?
Gosh, a long time ago now, I believe it will be 20 years this coming November – before I started going grey.
How many people worked for the company when you joined?
There was basically the Goss family and a lady called Sue who looked after the accounts.
What’s it like to work for a family-run business?
I love it! As you have a closer working relationship with your team and the suppliers overall.
What impact did it have on you when the company transitioned to include Hygienic Cladding and other services, to compliment Coatings?
I had a fantastic relationship with Liquid Plastics, now Sika, on the coatings side of the business, our bread and butter. The addition of Hygienic Cladding was a big next step that was exciting as it was a new avenue with the same clients that we could now satisfy, plus we expanded our team.
What keeps you working for Goss?
The variety of work, friendly colleagues and job satisfaction.
How do you typically approach problem-solving?
Common sense and knowing where to find the answers.
Do you have any strategies for dealing with stress at work?
Stress, what Stress? Delegation (which I find hard) and prioritising tasks.
What tips or advice would you give someone starting a new job?
Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance.
What methods or tools do you use to stay organised?
This is a question aimed just for me as I am ‘old school’ and do like pen and paper (scrap of course, which is then recycled, as we are environmentally friendly).
What has been your funniest moment?
Watching some of my colleagues try to take a swipe with the club at Top Golf last Christmas.
What is your most memorable mistake?
Booking digs for a place in Jersey which turned out to be in America with the same name.
What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Give every customer, however small, the same attention and good service.
What do you love most about your job?
My fantastic colleagues and receiving good feedback.
How do you spend your days when you’re not a work?
Mainly walking my beloved Patterdale Terrier, who doesn’t go too far these days as he’s getting on. I might have the odd visit to the local winery on occasion, and socialising with my close friends.
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
Conscientious, approachable and middle aged.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
The damn alarm clock!
If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be?
Back to Mauritius in a shot.
If you could spend the day with someone famous, who would it be and why?
George Michael, who was the most talented musician and lovely person.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
Insulin – I am a diabetic.
If you could pick a superpower, what would it be and why?
Being able to know in advance the lottery numbers so I could help my son, and his fiancée buy their first house.
Thank you Suzanne
As we conclude our conversation with Suzanne, it’s clear that her dedication to Goss and her passion for her work have played a significant role in her long-standing tenure with the company.
Her commitment to quality, strong relationships with colleagues, and ability to adapt to change are just a few of the qualities that have made her an invaluable member of the team.
Suzanne’s reflections on her career, coupled with her personal anecdotes, offer a well-rounded view of what it means to be part of the Goss family. We appreciate everything she has shared throughout this interview.
