Spotlight on Nicole
- 31 August 2020

Tell us about your role at SMCT.
I am the Senior Operations Manager and my role is to lead operational strategy and implementation of initiatives aligned to the strategic direction of SMCT. I am accountable for leading the Operational teams across all sites, this includes the Burials, Horticulture/Arbor, Crematorium/Memorials and Funeral Services teams.
What was your first job?
I started working at Caribbean Gardens Market from the age of 10, where my uncle had a stall selling $5 watches! Sunday morning 6 am starts equates to good grounding for strong work ethics.
What is the most important thing you've learnt throughout your career?
You never stop learning and if you are given an opportunity to grow and develop, take it with both hands and work hard to get the most from that opportunity.
What's your number one work-related goal this year?
Last year was a difficult year for many and I have been working from home like a lot of people, so I have tried to focus on staying in touch with people across the organisation via Teams or a phone call.
What do you wish everyone knew about SMCT?
How wonderful the people that work for SMCT are! Their dedication and care for our cemeteries and the people who attend our sites are amazing and it is a pleasure to work alongside them.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I have been working at SMCT for 20 years! Prior to working in Operations, I worked in the CX and Marketing teams. Before joining SMCT I spent 8 years in the police force.
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