Stock Control Manager Heidi Curson gives us a little insight into her previous experience and what goes on behind the scenes at BDH Tullford’s facilities in Norwich.
Tell us a little bit about your background.
My career has been built around stock control, warehousing and logistics.
I started out at Bennetts Retail Ltd. and primarily worked in merchandising, distribution, picking and packing. When I left there I joined Hughes Trade. While in that role, I set up the service section for their new commercial trade department before concentrating fully on stock control. I was responsible for 3 branches, so I was doing a lot of driving!
After many years, I built up some savings and decided to take a couple of months off to reassess what I was doing and where I wanted my career to go. I left in January 2020 but in March that year the pandemic took off, so I ended up having a wonderful 7-month break!
After a few odd jobs here and there, Samantha Chisnell from BDH Tullford got in touch with me about a position, which I started in the mid-August 2021.
What are the key aspects of your job?
I sort all of the stock that comes in and out of the warehouse and keep the database updated. I note the job, label it up, unload the lorries, sort dispatching, pack things up… That sort of thing.
We’ve also just acquired some additional warehousing so I am currently sorting that out so it is all ordered and set up properly from the start.
What are your favourite parts of the job?
I like it all! I especially like the physical aspect of it, such as driving the forklift and doing the packing. I didn’t particularly like working in the service section at my previous job as I had to be sat at a desk for 12 hours a day. In this job I get to move and chat to the drivers too.
What does a typical day look like to you?
It is very varied and no day is the same. One day I may be collecting pallets, or doing picking and packing, and then in the afternoon I’m busy wrapping pallets for dispatch.
What are the challenges of your role?
A lack of space! The logistics of managing our warehouse is difficult as it is an old building so you have to find a way of making everything work within the footprint you have. I play pallet Jenga™ a lot!
Deadlines can also be tricky so I may pull a night shift or two. If a client’s needs or deadlines change, you have to find a way around the work you have in order to meet it.
What do you like to get up to outside of work?
I like to go to the gym before work. If the weather is nice when I’m off, I like to do some gardening or go for a cycle around the countryside. Otherwise I’m very happy curled up on the sofa reading a good book with a hot chocolate.
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