Natalie Barker – Getting to Know You

Natalie is the secret weapon in helping the RPC office to run smoothly. She joined us as PA to the Operations Director, but the truth is she’s much more than that. She’s also one of the faces behind the live chat feature on our website, dealing daily with customer queries.

Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m happily married to Wez, who also now works at RPC, and have a 17-year-old daughter who is studying at Leeds City College. I was born in Leeds and now live in Guiseley, just down the road from the RPC office. I go to the gym most days – essentially so that I can eat and drink at the weekend. When I’m not eating or drinking (pie and mash, please), I do love a good shop!

Where did you work before RPC?
I started off working for our family Security Company, which was sold to ADT. I moved house then and started working for Leeds Bradford International Airport, as it’s right on my doorstep, but shift work didn’t suit my family life, so I was really pleased when I managed to get a job at RPC as Tina’s PA. I’ve been here nearly three years now.

What attracted you to RPC?
Initially it was the location and the hours. The RPC office is close to where I live and working regular office hours was going to be a huge improvement on the shift work at the airport. But I’ve realised that the people are definitely the best thing about RPC. I really feel part of the family – everyone does. 

Tell us about a typical working day for you
I usually get into the office at about 08.10am and the first job is always to put the kettle on. It’s Yorkshire, after all. 
I support Tina, the Operations Director, so part of my job is to do any banking tasks that are required and to update spreadsheets and our accounting software to keep our financial records up to date. 

I also help to support the training that we offer, which means checking and replying to emails about course bookings or arrangements, organising food for delegates who are training with us here in the office, generating certificates at the end of each course and adding delegate details to our training database as and when bookings come in. 

What do you like best about your job?
I guess I’m a bit of a compulsive motherer! I like looking after everyone – making sure everyone’s coffee cup is filled and they are well fed. It’s never stressful here, even when things aren’t going to plan, because everyone pitches in to help one another when it’s needed. That’s just what it’s like at RPC. We’re a team.

What do you do in your spare time?
Gym, shopping and being taxi driver for my teenage daughter. I do love a brew, though, and watching something on TV or just spending time with the family.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An Aeroplane Pilot – I live just outside the airport perimeter, so these days I like to watch the planes leaving Leeds Bradford Airport and dream about the sunny places they’re heading to … 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Be your best at all times. You never know what the future will bring, so always make the best use of the present. 

If your house was on fire, what three things would you save?
My husband, my daughter and my debit card.

What would your super power be?
Make everyone happy. 

Last, but most important: How do you like your tea?
Builders’ tea with a sweetener, please. I’ll make it.