A Kent commercial vehicle dealership is delving into the stories and experiences of three women from within its workforce to take stock of the progress made towards a more inclusive workforce.
Carrie Scott from Kent joined Sparshatt Truck and Van in 2023 as head of corporate services and has played an instrumental role in elevating the business, becoming a key component in operations, and advocating for the growth of the dealership’s academy.
Scott said: “Ever since I joined the industry I’ve always been surrounded by knowledgeable and experienced people. I’ve learned so much from the people around me here at Sparshatt, and I continue to learn every day.
“That’s why it’s so important to me that all that knowledge and experience flows through the business. I’m a member of Women in Automotive, set up by Mercedes Benz, and am committed to helping mentor and develop more women within both Sparshatt and the industry.”
With Sparshatt’s growth, Scott’s role within the business has also evolved, placing her in the position to make her mark on the business and gain a greater insight as Sparshatt enters a new chapter.
Scott added: “It’s great to see that Sparshatt have been very effective at uplifting and empowering women within the business and raising them to leadership positions while helping them to continually develop their skills. Year upon year, there are more women in senior roles at the company.”
Another of the inspiring women within Sparshatt Truck and Van is Claire Passmore, who has been a purchase ledger at Sparshatt Truck and Van for almost 16 years, since dealing with redundancy from her previous job at a London shipping company. She fell in love with the culture at Sparshatt and decided to set down roots without looking back.
“There’s no better place to work. This industry is filled with wonderful people. I’ve never once been treated differently in my 16 years here. My gender hasn’t even been a consideration for me here, let alone a barrier.
“I never get the Sunday evening dread of coming to work. Everyone at Sparshatt has helped me so much personally and professionally. I’ve been truly uplifted and empowered by my fellow colleagues and managers during difficult times, and also on an everyday basis.”
Scarlett Bedocs, marketing assistant at Sparshatt Truck and Van, came to join the marketing team within the business because she had loved every part of the marketing section of her Business Studies A-level and had a keen interest in the digital advertising world and current social media trends. So, when an opening arrived, she eagerly applied for a role at Sparshatt Truck and Van.
“It’s been clear to me since I’ve started that Sparshatt is invested in everyone’s futures here, and they’re passionate about setting you up with all the skills and qualifications you’ll need for a thriving career.
“I love that the automotive industry is all about the future and that the focus is on more sustainable travelling with Mercedes eMobility initiative to go completely emission-free with state-of-the-art electric trucks. The progress made is astonishing and I’m constantly introduced to new features and special technology.”