Kirsty Semple - Field Ops Manager

What is your current role and how long have you been with VPS?

Field Operations Manager and I have been with VPS for 8 years and 8 months.

What has been your career journey?

I joined VacMan (which VPS bought in October 2013) on 29/05/11 as a clear & clean operative. I was promoted to Supervisor in March 2016 when we won the City of Edinburgh Council contract. I was promoted again to Field Operations Manager in November 2019.

What made you decide on a career in Operations Management?

I have always enjoyed working in operations and decided that I wanted to work my way up the ranks. I have worked very hard in this industry along with my team mates and managers. I have also used my experience as an MSO over the years to progress and work better with staff and Customers.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to have a career in Operations Management?

To work hard, show you’re willing to do anything that’s asked of you and to be quick off the mark to own and solve any issues that come up as this is a very intense area to manage.

What has been the most memorable achievement in your career so far?

Becoming an FOM, to feel that I was supported and thought enough of to give me this role in such a large business.

What would you like to achieve in the future?

To continue to progress within VPS, to show my full commitment and support. Also to help lead others to a brighter future and positive career path.

What do you think is the biggest issue faced by women in the workplace today?

It is still very much a man’s environment especially in the Security business and there is still a battle to show that women can do the exact same jobs, sometimes even better.