From reception to fleet sales manager

One of those to benefit from Swansway’s ‘ground up’ approach to staff development is Sarah Eccles.

As a receptionist during the formation of Swansway and the amalgamation of the businesses that were the starting blocks of the company, Eccles was ‘left behind’.

But the Smyths recognised she had a personality they could foster. She moved into the fleet department in a sales admin role. She is now group fleet sales manager.

“It became our mission to succeed with her in the fleet department because we felt it was us against the world down to the way Sarah and the business she was in being left to sink or swim,” said Peter Smyth.

“In the beginning I would call the leasing companies and be honest with them and say I had been given a golden opportunity and what did they want from me, what would help you.” Eccles said. “I was naïve, but like a retail customer, they appreciate and respect the honesty and the willingness to deliver what they need.”

This attitude has seen Swansway achieve preferred supplier status with Lex Autolease, ALD, Hitachi, Lokers and Alphabet and win nine awards from leasing companies and manufacturers. Fleet sales exceed 2,000 units per annum.

The online brokerage business UChoose Contracts, created in 2010, sold in excess of 300 units last year.