Career Journey: Sarah Tester, Finance & Operations Director
We had a chat with Sarah about her experience working for Lifehouse, what a typical day is like for her, and how she worked her way up the career ladder. Read the full interview below!
How long have you been working at Lifehouse?
I have been at Lifehouse for 11 years. I joined as part of the pre-opening team.
Tell us a little bit about how you ended up here.
My hospitality career started back in 1987 when I began working in the local holiday parks. I wanted a career in hospitality management but there were no vacancies locally, so I moved into customer service/admin roles instead. I was working in the local job centre when Lifehouse started recruiting, and it looked so fantastic that I knew this was finally my opportunity. I took any role I could to get in the door, so I joined as a night porter. Over the last 11 years I have worked my way up through the company to my current position of Finance & Operations Director.
Describe your usual working day.
My job is so varied that there’s no such thing as a usual working day. I look after both the financial side of the business and the operational side as well. The role encompasses everything from company finances, strategy, HR, recruitment and legal compliance to operational matters within the resort. This could be anything from choosing what colour to paint a wall to investigating a major malfunction within the plant room. In a resort of this size, running 24/7, anything can happen at any time, so I have to be prepared for whatever the day may bring. There is certainly no time to get bored.
What’s your favourite thing about working at Lifehouse?
Other than the fact it is the most beautiful setting to come to work in, my favourite thing is the people. Clichéd as it may sound, we are like one big family, and the teamwork and camaraderie that come with that makes work a pleasure.
What do you like most about working in this industry?
It is a really rewarding industry to work in. When the team are providing an excellent service to our guests and you see them all smiling, laughing and enjoying themselves you get an immense satisfaction in knowing you have been a part of making those memories. Also, no two days are the same.
What makes Lifehouse different from other places you’ve worked?
To me, Lifehouse is special and unique. The setting, the brand, the team are all incredible and no other place I have worked can compare to this. It gets under your skin and, for me, being here since the beginning means I have seen it grow and it will always have a special place in my heart. I have also been given opportunities here that I would not have been offered in other places I have worked.
What are some new skills you have picked up since you started working here?
The list is endless to be honest, I learn new things every day. Qualification and training wise, the main things have been that I have gained qualifications in Management Accountancy, Leadership and Management and Pool Plant Operations. During my time here I have really developed my managerial and HR skills, as they were limited prior to starting here. I have been mentored in my role by the owners of Lifehouse and would like to think I have grown into a competent leader of the business.
What advice would you give to people applying for a job like yours?
Follow your dreams. Anything is possible if you are prepared to work hard and dedicate time to it. Listen to, respect, and appreciate your team as they are crucial to your own success as well as that of the business.
Feeling inspired? Check out our vacancies to find the perfect Lifehouse position for you.
