Recruitment specialist Lynda Ward believes that UK pet companies would benefit from employing more part-time staff in certain roles.

Lynda said: “Since founding Pet Trade Solutions in 2000 I have specialised in bespoke recruitment for the pet industry and have headhunted from within and outside the industry, for UK and overseas clients and roles at all levels. Until now I have never seen so many good people seeking part-time employment.

“Prior to setting up Pet Trade Solutions I was a sales manager for over 15 years with three major pet food companies so have an in-depth understanding of the requirements of the jobs and during that period part-time working wouldn’t have been countenanced.

“However, times have changed and major barriers can now be overcome. For example, field sales positions are no longer hampered by employers understandably not wanting their company cars to sit idle – many sales people now prefer to use their own cars and receive a car allowance.

“Plus, office-based roles no longer depend on employees living close to a main office – remote working, including online meetings as needed, now enables a much broader choice for both parties with part-time (or job-share) easily organised. 

“In particular, field sales part-time roles can offer great advantages in flexibility for businesses needing field sales coverage but lacking the budget for either employing their first sale  sperson or increasing their sales force. Areas needing less coverage than others can be addressed perfectly by a part-time person, so leaving more time for a full-time employee to concentrate on the areas needing more visits. 

“Likewise, our industry now has many experienced field sales personnel with great contacts who would welcome the option of working part-time in order to have a better work/life balance or, indeed, for some who have left to return to us.

“Time will tell, but it’s worth considering could part-time work…work for you?”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com