PPB November 2017

Becky F l eur y 74 | NOVEMBER 2017 | CONNECT A s a child in Greater London, Becky Fleury was independent, smart and focused, but the conventional classroom environment failed to inspire her. Armed with ambition and confidence, Fleury left school at age 16 and set out to find a job. “I had no thought about the type of industry I wanted to work in,” Fleury laughs. “I only knew that I wanted to work in an office environment.” Fleury enrolled in an on- the-job training course that better suited her learning style and career drive. After a few unsuccessful interviews, she met Gill Thorpe, CEO of The Sourcing Team, a promotional merchandise distributor in London. “Honestly, I had no skills to contribute, but she took a chance on me because she liked my smile and personality. That was the kick-start to my career,” she says. Fleury started as an office junior, an entry-level position that included filing and general administrative duties. Once employed, Fleury could appreciate the practical application of education in her future success. She studied business administration and later earned her diploma from the Institute of Sales Promotion, now the Institute of Promotional Marketing. As she proved herself, her responsibilities were expanded, and she was exposed to the intricacies of purchase orders, sales and liaising with suppliers. Today she is the company’s client service director. Fleury sees her humble career beginnings as an advantage. “Having been with the business for 21 years, I have worked in every role, including corporate finance. I would never ask anyone to do anything that I haven’t done or wouldn’t do. Knowing the industry and business fromall aspects and departments has givenme unique insight and knowledge, and expertise that has contributed to my highly specialized approach to client service.” What drew you toThe Sourcing Team and what has kept you there for 21 years? Gill believed in me and gave me the opportunity to grow and develop, both personally and professionally. It is very rare to meet someone who becomes your mentor so early in your career, and her influence in my life cannot be overstated. Gill is now a colleague and a friend, and she continues to support me as I develop additional expertise in our business and within the wider industry. What are your responsibilities as client service director? My responsibilities cover a number of essential duties: client brand guardianship, product compliance, and supply chain management, including auditing assessments. And, of course, working closely with and adding value to our amazing clients. As a director, I have visibility across all operations. The Sourcing Team is known as a leader in product safety in Becky Fleury knew what she wanted and worked to make it happen. by Terry Ramsay Leap Of Faith