Ellie Walton is HR Assistant and former apprentice at Peterlee-based global automotive technology leader ZF.
Ellie, 24, tells us more about her role with the company, what it’s like working for a large multi-national and what she likes most about the job…
EDB: You started your ZF career as an apprentice didn’t you? Tell us about that. EW: I started as HR Apprentice in 2017, initially completing my Level 3 qualification in Business Administration. I then went on to my HR qualifications and completed my Level 3 and Level 5 CIPD all through Sunderland College.
From there I then progressed to a permanent role as HR Assistant.
EDB: Now you’re fully qualified, what does your role involve now? EW: A wide variety of tasks including the new starter process with permanent and apprenticeship positions. I am also involved in working with the agencies to provide temporary staff.
Another element of my job is to organise training and development for the Peterlee site and dealing with general daily employee related queries.
I also advise senior staff and managers on HR process and procedures.
EDB: How do you find working for a big global business like ZF? EW: It’s interesting to understand how a large organisation works and be able to talk to various colleagues around the world, as well as being able to speak regularly with other ZF UK HR teams to help collaborate and share ideas. This also gives me more opportunity to learn and develop which is something I have loved from day one.
EDB: What’s a typical working day for you? EW: A good thing about my role is every day can be different depending on the demands of the business at the time. For that reason the job keeps me on my toes.
EDB: It sounds like your job is incredibly varied. Is that something you enjoy? EW: I love having a varied job and getting involved with a range of different tasks, I also enjoy being able to interact with all departments across the business, which has helped me develop my understanding of how the site operates.
EDB: What do you like most about your job? EW: I enjoy a fast paced automotive environment and the fact that no two days are ever the same.
EDB: What are your aims for the future? EW: To continue to develop my knowledge and HR skills with the next career step been a HR Advisor.
EDB, Away from work, how do you relax? EW: I love socialising and going on holidays with the girls. Last year I had three which was great – that’s what my money goes on.
