Rob Wilkes, Technical Account Manager for Alcumus Sypol, has recently celebrated his 10 year anniversary at the company. To mark this special milestone, we’ve asked Rob 10 questions to find out about his time at Alcumus over the last decade.
In ten words or less, please describe your job role.
Dealing with existing subscribers’ issues, regardless of size or complexity.
Describe a typical day at Alcumus.
For me, there isn’t a typical day. Each day varies considerably but, generally, my day revolves around helping subscribers use the Alcumus Sypol system to support their compliance with COSHH.
We have an amazing helpdesk who help with usage of the system and whys and wherefores, but if more technical requirements and issues arise, I speak directly to the subscribers and find solutions.
What is your favourite part of your job?
My favourite part of my job is dealing with people and looking to solve a solution which not only makes people compliant, but also helps operatives go home as healthy as they arrive at work.
What drew you to Alcumus originally and how has it changed since?
It was my first job using my degree, so my thought process was that working for a Health & Safety consultancy would provide me with an opportunity to build a career in this sector.
I remember the email we received saying that Sypol was being acquired by Alcumus and was being built up with the backing of investors. There were significant changes, but for the better. The company has grown with the acquisitions of all the various business units, and it has only made the organisation stronger.
The main attraction for me is the opportunities available within the business; I have only experienced positive outcomes from looking for opportunities. Now, the company is bigger in stature and serves more clients, but still has the values of a family-run business.
Do you remember your first day?
How can I forget it? I casually drove in on an amazingly sunny day and met so many new faces. There was a generic introduction to everyone in the office and a barrage of names to remember in 10 minutes; I’m useless with names at the best of times so if I ever forget anyone’s name, I apologise in advance!
At Alcumus Sypol, it’s a tradition to go out for lunch as an icebreaker. It was decided that we should all get some pizza and sit outside in the sun, but we struggled to find a decent communal area to eat so we ended up sitting in a pretty unusual spot! However, I’ll save that story for another time.
After a productive first day at work, I went to my car to head home and saw a parking ticket! Great!
What has been your proudest moment at the company so far?
I would say my proudest moments have been when I’ve continuously scored over 90% in BOHS exams, and when I was given a bottle of champagne for a project I worked on for Talisman.
What do you like most about working at Alcumus?
The relaxed attitude at work. There has always been an attitude of as long as the work gets done, then you can enjoy yourself doing it. Basically, I was a nightmare for my managers!
What’s your favourite memory of the last ten years?
Well, my memorable moments usually involve travelling, mainly offshore, but I wouldn’t say they were my favourite memories - just very memorable!
I would say it was just after I had my ACL reconstruction (a type of knee surgery). I travelled into work and was sent home. I thought it was a wind up at first, but I got escorted out of the office - on crutches.
What advice do you have for prospective Alcumus candidates?
Always speak up and ask for an opportunity to progress. Nothing will come to if you think you will progress as a “rite of passage”.
What three words would you use to describe Alcumus?
Progressive, positive, and supportive.
Alcumus would like to thank Rob for his hard work and dedication over the last 10 years, and congratulation him on his tenth anniversary of service. Well done Rob!
Join the Team
If you’d like to become a part of the Alcumus family, we have exciting opportunities available across all our offices. Take a look at our current vacancies or get in touch with our internal recruitment team on 02920 852 852 for further information.