Jane Wadsworth KITCHENER 2000 Ltd Portable Appliance Testing Services

Your life before joining Kitchener 2000. 

I worked for Express Gifts in Clayton for a total of nine years. After the first couple of years I moved in to the Personnel Department, where, for the next 7 years, looking after the Customer Service Centre, Computer Centre and the Warehouse, I came across every type of employment problem and query imaginable. 

How did you get involved in the running of the business and where you have gone for advice/support?

Kitchener 2000 was set up in 1996 by my father and brother. They were joined by their wives, Ann and Melaine, who took on the administration and accounts accordingly. 

I joined the company in 2002 and took up a position in planning and logistics to support my father, Keith. At the same time the Company was awarded a very large contract with Lancashire County Council and my father Keith started to suffer with his health. He had to retire due to ill health within 2 years of me joining the company.

The company was set up originally with a lot of advice and support from Hyndburn Enterprise Trust. We have also had support from the Chamber of Commerce and Business Link.

I have continued my father's good relationships with Hyndburn Enterprise Trust, who have supported our Company with finance for training, and also with the Chamber of Commerce and Business Link.

I have also developed my own relationships with various business support organizations, including Unique Women in Business - (Chamber of Commerce) providing seminars, training and networking opportunities.

I have also become involved in the start up of 'North West Leaders Forum'.

What has been your biggest challenge so far and how did you meet that challenge? 

Retaining the 2003 Investors in People Award made me look at every aspect of the business. I had to document policies and procedures, provide evidence, look at implementing improvements. 

This year we won the LCC 5 year Contract for all 3 areas for the second time.

Applying for a contract is now a lengthy business, but again we took as much advice as we could to ensure that we completed the Pre Qualification Questionnaire and the Tender Document fully, This help was invaluable but we were rewarded by getting the contract again. 

What are the rewards of being your own boss? 

Being your own boss brings satisfaction that the work you do has a direct effect. There can eventually be financial rewards but the feeling of 'self worth' is much more motivating. You gain self respect, confidence and this motivates not only you but those around you. 

What would be your one Top Tip for women thinking about starting their own business? 

Get as much advice as you can. There are lots of organisations who can support you with both training and financial incentives. These agencies want to see you succeed and will provide an independent view that so much easier to listen too. 

The agencies provide experienced professional people who have not only seen all your problems before but have the answers. Contacts such as these will carry on supporting your business and keep you up to date with financial incentives, legal changes and provide networking so that you can talk to others just like you. 

Contact: 01254 239194 

or visit: www.kitchener2000.co.uk