Jemma Hughes

What prompted you to apply to Motability Operations?

I’d heard nothing but good things about MO, in particular, its supportive culture and benefits package. If I’m honest, I’d never considered the positive impact it would have on my career alongside having dyslexia.

Another key driver for me was the amazing work we do for our customers and the incredible reputation MO has in customer service. I’m still blown away at how the scheme changes lives.

What role do you have at Motability Operations?

I’ve worked at MO for 14 years (so far) most of which have been in our Vehicle Remarketing Department. I started in the sales team and went on to manage the customer support/trade credit team. At the moment I’m seconded into the HR team, running our Diversity and Inclusion workshops. Once I’ve completed the sessions for all employees, I will be going back into the Vehicle Remarketing Department, where I am now fortunate enough to be working 3 days a week within the sales team so that I can enjoy my time with my two small children.

What do you enjoy most about working here?

The easiest question to answer – the people and culture. MO has an incredible skill for hiring the right people for our culture and creating a work family. I remember in my first two weeks thinking ‘not everyone can be this nice’ however 14 years on I’ve only ever experienced support, care and compassion.

How do you manage your disability at work?

Firstly, the fact that I don’t feel the pressure of feeling on my own with my dyslexia makes my work life far less stressful than other jobs I’ve had. Secondly, I am currently going through a work based assessment that MO has arranged for me with a third party that will will provide reasonable adjustment recommendations. It’s amazing to know that if there is something which would make my job easier there would be no question about it being made available to me. Last, the support I get from my team, whether it is how to spell a word, a reminder of a process or proofreading a document there is never any judgement and always a genuine need to help. The other thing I find important in managing my dyslexia at work is owning it myself. I know I have whatever support I need from the company and my colleagues, but I always make sure I’m mindful of my challenges and work out ways myself to ensure I don’t hold myself back.

How has Motability Operations helped you to do well at your workplace?

MO doesn’t let any form of disability or neurodiverse condition define you. As a company, they always see the person first and for me, it gives me the confidence to drive forward with my career. The workplace assessment is just one example of what is available to me, I also went on a Personal Development Program that focusses on people with a disability progressing in their careers.

Working for a company that has a transparent approach to their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy also gives me the reassurance that the company is always looking to better themselves in creating a level playing field for all.

Have you acquired any additional qualities or skills as a result of having a disability and how have these helped you in your career?

This year I’ve been very fortunate in becoming the Disability Lead for the companies Disability Network group which is called enABLE. Not only will I be representing the voice of my colleagues with long term health conditions, disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions but I will also be looking to drive forward the good we already do to ensure all avenues of support are available.

Prior to my role as Disability Lead, I was a Mental Health Allies for the business. This is a support function for anyone that needs a listening ear. I am very open about my neurodiverse condition to encourage anyone who needs to talk about how it could be affecting them.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking of applying to work at Motability Operations?

Do it!!!