Name: Jon Stacey
Company Role: Senior Lending Representative
Hi Jon, thanks for so much for taking the time to answers some questions today.
It’s a pleasure.
Let’s start with a bit about you. Could you tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to Cherry Godfrey?
My background is in retail banking and more specifically in management.
And what was your first job? Did you learn any important lessons from it?
I worked in Woolworths as a 16-year-old. I learned about customer service and how to influence others to increase sales.
Both very important, of course. Do you have a favourite quote or saying?
‘Success isn’t just about what you accomplish in life, it’s what you inspire others to do.’
Oh, that’s great. On that, what would you say makes someone a great leader?
I’d say, a great leader is someone who thrives on embracing challenges. Important attributes are being able to truly listen and get to know people, as well as being prepared to accept feedback and act on that feedback. I think it’s essential to understand what really motivates others and inspires them to bring their best to work every day and join whatever journey a company is on. Also, making sure people feel comfortable to bring their personalities to work and have fun.
Could you tell us about the biggest challenge you’ve ever faced at work and how you overcame it?
I had a member of staff who was coming to work drunk. I had previously taken her to the doctors as she didn’t have a support network at home, but it became apparent that I couldn’t help through this avenue. I had to suspend her which put extra pressure on my team. I was being pushed to take her through disciplinary to seek dismissal, but I pushed back and wanted an occupational health report done and some counselling for her, because, prior to this, she had been a great member of staff. By doing this, whilst she got a written warning she didn’t get dismissed, but she did get counselling. A year later she thanked me for helping her and is still sober to this day, working for the same bank.
Wow, that’s a difficult position, well done. So, what daily habits help you succeed?
I’m always up and in work early to make sure I have time to prepare and plan for the day ahead. I set mini hourly goals throughout the day. I ensure that, before I leave, I have completed everything that needs to be done so I don’t carry anything over to the following day.
Great stuff. What’s one thing you love about Cherry Godfrey?
That we are a company which truly cares about our customers and each other.
Aw, Jon, that’s lovely to hear. If you were able to invite any three people round for dinner (living or dead), who would you choose – and why?
Tiger Woods - I love golf, but also, he was a massive movement for growth and change in the game and how he handled that pressure.
Professor Brian Cox – I have a passion for Space and Physics in general so I would love to pick his brains about the universe.
Sir Alex Ferguson – as a Manchester United supporter, to listen to his stories about his players, how he built the club and how he managed to inspire others to win over a long period of time would be amazing to listen to.
And, finally, what do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
Spending time with my kids, walking the dogs, and playing golf.
Sounds like you’re busy! Thank you so much Jon for taking the time today to help us get to know you better!
