Gemma Francis, Director of People and Culture is passionate about HR and employment law. Find out what inspired her to pursue a career in HR and learn about her unique career path and professional journey.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in HR?
I remember the exact moment I decided to pursue a career in HR. I was watching a new show on Channel 4, The Office, and sat, in horror, watching David Brent’s antics. At first, I thought it was a fly-on-the-wall documentary and was horrified. How can he get away with this? I thought I am going to pursue a career where I could help prevent managers from treating people like this! And that’s where it started.
What aspect of the job do you like the most??
The people. I’d expect no other answer from a People professional. A workplace should be inclusive, engaging, inspirational, supportive, productive and above all else fun! Getting the balance right can be tricky but I enjoy striving to make KSS a great place to work, where we all feel a sense of purpose and achievement and are proud of the amazing work we have achieved. I love working with such a talented bunch of people.
What have the significant challenges been working in HR?
Covid was the hardest and most challenging point of my career, I think most people professionals would agree, although it also presented plenty of learning opportunities. I think it’s incredible how quickly we were all able to adapt to the change and pull together as a team and that’s a testament to the people at KSS. Post-Covid and the changing culture of work and employee expectations are also reasons why HR professionals are having to adapt, but that is the nature of HR; things are always changing.
You have worked at KSS for 10 years; why have you been at a company for so long?
When you join the company, you are welcomed into an extended family working with great people. The directors are incredibly supportive, and I love the flexibility offered with having a family. Overall, it is an excellent place to work.
If you could live in any building, what would it be?
It would be a modern coastal-style home, made from natural materials with clean lines and large glass windows. It would be an ample open and airy space, but also cosy with sheepskin rugs and a wood burner. It is perched high on a cliff top in south Devon, with panoramic sea views and a floor-to-ceiling aquarium wall. Or the opposite is a small country chocolate box cottage surrounded by fields in the middle of nowhere. I’ll keep doing the lottery!!!