Brooke Thomson
Brooke Thomson
Group HR Adviser
How and when did you join Serco?
I joined Serco in April 2005 after relocating from Australia to the UK.
What was your first role? How did your career at Serco progress from there?
I began working for Serco as an administrator in the Strategic Development team of our Defence, Science & Technology Division. In November 2005 I secured a temporary role as HR Administrator within the Group corporate function, which was later made permanent. In early 2007 I was promoted to Group HR Adviser.
How many different positions/divisions have you worked in during your career with Serco? Please describe them. What is the scale/scope of your current role?
In my current role I provide advice, guidance and support to Group managers and employees and I also work with the Head of Remuneration on various employee engagement initiatives.
What has been the most challenging thing you have done in Serco?
Developing as a HR professional is an ongoing challenge. The depth and breadth of capability required to truly add value to the business means that everyday is a learning experience and improving my knowledge and skills is a continuous process.
What has been the most rewarding thing you have done with Serco?
When I joined the Group HR operations team in 2005 it was in its infancy. Seeing the function develop over the years has been rewarding and a satisfying achievement for all the team members.
What do you like most about Serco?
I like the entrepreneurial culture and the opportunity to develop on a professional and personal level. The diversity of Serco provides the unique experience of working for one company yet having the opportunity to work across a number of markets, in varied and interesting roles.
How would you describe the Serco culture?
Serco's culture is one where opportunities are only limited by one's own ambition. It asks employees to take responsibility for the company's success and it allows employees to bring in new ideas to improve the way things are done.
If you had to describe Serco in three words, what would they be?
Passionate, Lively, Successful
How have you developed while with Serco?
Serco are supporting my professional HR qualification, a part-time course over 4 years. I also have the opportunity to work with other HR professionals across Serco which provides opportunities to tap into their experience, knowledge and expertise.
What do you think differentiates Serco from the competition?
I don't believe there are many service companies in the UK who operate in such a diverse range of markets as Serco. The opportunity for a varied career within a single company is very appealing.
In what ways have you supported charity or the local community while with Serco?
As a member of a Serco Community Group, I was involved in numerous fund raising events for local, national and international charities. I also take pleasure in sponsoring colleagues in the numerous charity events that take place each year.
Why would you recommend working for Serco?
Serco offer competitive packages, are a caring and family friendly employer, and offer staff the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally. Serco is unique in that it is a large international company with a family business feel and this, along with the work Serco does to improve the lives of people around the world, makes it a company to be proud to work for.