Celebrating 10 Years with Debra!
We recently had the pleasure of celebrating a fantastic milestone – 10 years since Debra Kuc became part of the Stafforce team. To honour this achievement, we sat down with Debra to reflect on her journey, proudest moments, and the impact she has made over the past decade.
Can you take us back to your first day – what do you remember most about it?
I clearly remember going to the Stafforce offices in Hull, which were based at the Jackson’s site at the time. It was a very busy office, with lots of people focused on processing wages – there wasn’t much time to chat until payroll was done! There was also a huge amount of paperwork and definitely no clear desk policy back then. I was brought in to clear the mountain of paperwork that had accumulated, mainly candidate registration packs as it was done differently back in the day.
What attracted you to the company, and what’s kept you here for 10 years?
The company was recommended to me by my daughter-in-law, Lucy, who was also working for Stafforce at the time. I had just taken redundancy after spending over 25 years in debt management. I let my family know I was interested in returning to work but wanted a complete change – recruitment certainly was that! It was meant to be a short-term contract, as I initially planned to take six months out, but I started at Stafforce within a week of leaving my previous job and loved it so much that I stayed for 10 years! In fact, I wish I had made the move much earlier in my career, as it suits me perfectly – talking to new people and building new connections. The yearly seminars are a highlight for me and for my husband, as everyone makes him feel so welcome and part of the business. (I just get to enjoy the party which I do!)
Have there been any standout moments or achievements that have stuck with you?
Quite a few standout moments! Doing keep-fit videos in our presentation room with Alison Cook and Christina Poulton, realising we were all going in different directions (probably because I was too busy laughing to follow the video properly!). Collecting funds with colleagues outside Hull City Ground for Nicholas Associates Groups’ charity, PHASE Worldwide – shaking our buckets. Nights out – cocktail goldfish bowls, shots of vodka, etc. And monthly briefings, including the time one of our colleagues had just made a music video with John Newman…
Recruitment can be fast-paced – how do you stay organised and keep things running smoothly?
I love my lists and calendar invites – they keep me on top of everything.
If you had to describe your 10 years in recruitment using only three words, what would they be?
EXCITING, FUN, BUSY