Team Spotlight
We are proud of our People
We recognise our strength lies in the teams' collective expertise and deep knowledge of technology, HR and outsourcing, and their commitment and care shown to our clients. Our international team of consultants and support staff are passionate and driven. They love making the complex simple and sharing their HR tech knowledge so 'things' work better.
Each month, we will be selecting one colleague from our team, highlighting their passion and drive whilst putting a face to Tugela People.
This month we interviewed Sam Spink, one of our HRIS Technical Support Consultants within the Managed Services Division focused on providing support to clients that operate the Sage People HRIS. Sam joined the team back in January this year.
What is your background, and why did you choose to specialise in HRIS Admin support?
Before joining Tugela, I worked as an HR Solutions Associate, where I was responsible for implementing and supporting the company's HR System. While I had always been a system superuser, this was my first role in leading a system implementation and development thereof. In this role, I found my passion for HR systems. For me, there is nothing better than taking a process and configuring the system to deliver on the business requirements and objectives. In addition, knowing that with my input, I can help reduce the pain points and time spent for the manager and HR Team makes it all worthwhile.
What inspired you to join the Tugela People team?
When I discovered the service that Tugela People provided, I jumped at the chance to expand my knowledge of an extensive system such as Sage People and to support a wide breadth of customers.
Additionally, despite having worked from home since the first lockdown, it was refreshing to be offered the flexibility to have a home-based role. Due to my geographic location within the UK, had I have been required to be office based, I would not have been able to accept the role otherwise.
How has your journey with the company been so far?
Being home-based, I was apprehensive about the company induction and being trained for the role remotely. However, my fears were quickly dismissed, as I was made to feel very welcome and part of the team from day one.
The initial training provided has been a combination of videos and user guides, along with the invaluable support and input from the team. With the mixed approach of formal learning and training 'on the job', I have found that I have started helping the team and adding value.
Since starting with Tugela People, I am thrilled to have attained my HCM Core Implementation Certificate, stage 1 of 2 system certifications - a significant personal achievement! I have always been a practical learner, so to sit an exam was rather daunting; however, with the support of all my notes, user guides and everyone at Tugela People, I achieved a pass on the first attempt!.
How do you envision your future with the company?
Now I am continuing my learning for the second stage of the Certification and am in the process of being assigned my first customer, for whom I will be their key contact. With the team's support, I envision developing a strong working relationship and reflecting the great values of Tugela People.
My hope for the next six months to a year is to continue to expand my knowledge and experience of the Sage People system. Additionally, to facilitate the company in delivering the many new HR system initiatives, such as HR Automation, and supporting other new colleagues joining the business.
Aside from work, what makes you tick?
I have a creative approach to both work and life, and when I'm not working, I love nothing more than to sit with a pencil and paper in my hand. I haven't quite found my one subject passion yet, but I love trying my hand at portraiture and landscapes. Unfortunately, it's currently too cold to get out to the shed to start painting again, so now I am focusing on coloured pencils.
When I'm not at my easel, I love meeting with my friends and putting the world to rights with a cup of tea (water in first, of course.)
During the pandemic, I have developed a passion for crochet. It was a great hobby to keep me out of the biscuit cupboard, and I love nothing more than seeing my niece's joy when I give them the teddies I have made.