Celebrating 40 Years of Service: An Interview with Eileen Reeves
This year, we’re proud to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone – Eileen, our Paroll Clerk, has completed 40 years of service with Pickerings. Over the past four decades, she has witnessed incredible changes in our industry, contributed to countless projects, and inspired many colleagues along the way.
To mark this occasion, we sat down with Eileen to reflect on her career journey, achievements, and advice for the next generation.
Q: What inspired you to join Pickerings 40 years ago?
A: I started at the garage next door to Pickerings Plant as a cashier, my husband and I went for some petrol, and I saw the job advert. I was shocked when I got the job. I offered to do some typing for the manageress at Pickerings Plant while the PA was away, which lead onto me being offered a job at Pickerings Plant office in accounts. I was always good at maths, and it felt like a natural fit.
Q: Can you remember your very first day at work?
A: I vaguely remember working on my first shift with a lady called Carol. I liked it. I started working every Friday and every other Saturday/Sunday.
Q: What was your first role, and how has it evolved over the years?
A: It’s been an interesting journey. When I first started at Pickerings Plant, it was just me and one other lady in the office. I handled the purchase ledger and timesheets and even went over to Bloor Homes to do the payroll. Eventually, we moved onto Sage, and I began running payroll myself.
Q: How has the company changed since you first started?
A: Massively – it has expanded with more staff, a redeveloped head office, and a wider range of departments, including areas like sales and marketing. We also changed from Pickerings Plant to Pickerings Hire as the business took a new direction.
Q: What has been your proudest moment during your career here?
A: Receiving a Rolex from John Bloor (the owner), in recognition of 25 years of service - that was a truly proud and memorable moment.
Q: Are there any projects or milestones that stand out most to you?
A: One of the biggest milestones for me was managing the transition from a plant hire company to focusing on site accommodation - it was a major change that really stood out.
Q: What has kept you motivated and committed for 40 years?
A: The money helps, of course! But really, it’s the people and the work itself - coming into the office keeps me young, and I still genuinely enjoy what I do.
Q: What lessons have you learned along the way?
A: You don’t always need formal qualifications—there’s so much you can learn along the way. I’ve worked my way up with the help of encouragement and training opportunities.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees just starting out?
A: Take every opportunity that comes your way—don’t be afraid to step up and push yourself forward.
Q: If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self on day one?
A: Take time to enjoy the work and keep pushing yourself to grow. Have faith in yourself.
Q: Looking ahead, what does the future hold?
A: I’ll keep going as long as I’m enjoying it – plus, it funds my holidays!
Closing Thoughts
Reaching 40 years of service is an extraordinary achievement, and Eileen has done so with dedication, passion, and professionalism. She has left a lasting mark on our company’s story and continues to inspire those around her.
On behalf of everyone at Pickerings, we thank Eileen for her outstanding commitment and congratulate her on this incredible milestone. Here’s to the next chapter!
