Character Profile: Jackie Grant – Office Manager

After 13 years with Replacement Lamp Services, Jackie could be considered the team anchor. She’s the voice at the end of the line when you call in and the person responsible for all scheduling, tracking and invoicing of jobs. As if that wasn’t enough, Jackie also looks after stock and stationery and manages all accounts receivable and payable.

The transition to a paperless system is underway with two of Replacement Lamp Services’ four electricians now ‘online’. As well as less writing for the guys, it cuts down duplication and errors and will certainly make Jackie’s job easier once the transition is complete. “All of that translates to a more efficient service and response for customers too,” she says.

With a long career in banking prior to joining Replacement Lamp Services in 2003, Jackie has a strong sense of attention to detail. “I like to have it right, things get done in a certain order,” she says. “I have had to be organised in my life with four kids and a husband who was away a lot.” She’s got an excellent memory too, and doesn’t usually need to refer to the system for the details of a job if it has previously passed her desk.

When asked about why she’s still here, she says, “It’s special because it’s like a family. I’ve been here 13 years, and the guys have been around a long time too.” She also values the autonomy and variety in her role; along with the flexibility she’s had over the years to support her children in their various sporting (both at NZ and regional representative level) endeavours.

Outside work, with her children all now fully grown, Jackie is actively involved in Surf Lifesaving as the Secretary for Mairangi Bay, a Chief Instructor, Examiner for the Northland region, and as a Surf Official at carnivals. Between that, family and her work we’re not entirely sure how she will achieve her desire to travel more!