Celebrating Black History Month and ACE Network at Travis Perkins plc: Jade’s colleague story

What is the ACE Network? 

The Awareness of Cultures and Ethnicities (ACE) network aims to give a voice to and raise awareness of the issues faced in our business by under-represented ethnic minorities so we can drive change for better.

It provides a safe space for people from an ethnic minority background and allies to come together as a support network for one another and acts as a ‘critical friend’ to the Travis Perkins Group, helping to identify issues and barriers in relation to culture, policies, procedures and practices.

As part of Travis Perkins plc’s commitment to creating a culture of belonging - where we recognise and celebrate the moments that matter throughout the year for our colleagues, customers and communities - we are celebrating Black History Month and the impact of black heritage and culture in the UK by sharing hero stories and ‘Saluting our Sisters’ (this year's theme) by calling out the exceptional achievements of black women. 

We are also running knowledge and awareness sessions throughout the month and inviting colleagues to map their heritage, be curious and discover more.

“As a member of the ACE network, I see it as my responsibility to help educate my colleagues and raise awareness and understanding. I also prioritise learning what is important to colleagues around me so we can maintain an inclusive work environment.” 

In addition to ACE, I’m also actively involved in the Ability and Proud colleague networks because these hit close to home for me. As an interracial lesbian with autism, I want to be part of a workplace that supports people like me as well as less privileged communities.” 

A passion for coding and technology

Jade's journey into the world of technology began with a keen interest in coding. 

As she delved into the intricacies of the POS green screens while working on the IT Service Desk, she found her calling. 

Although possessing just a BTEC National Diploma in IT and no prior experience in the field, her enthusiasm and dedication propelled her into the role of a Software Operations Engineer.

At Travis Perkins plc, we are looking for people with a passion and a continuous learning mindset. So, if you see a job that excites you on our website, don’t hesitate to apply! Focus on highlighting your skills and passion throughout your application process. 

Tell us about your career journey 

“I joined Wickes (who were a part of the Travis Perkins Group at this time) as a Part Time Customer Advisor at our National Customer Service Centre whilst studying AAT (accountancy course) in February 2012, quickly advancing to Deputy Team Leader by February 2013. 

It was in this role that I realised I wanted to take my career on an IT-based route and was thrilled to secure a position as an IT Service Desk Analyst based at the Group head office in Feb 2014, aiding colleagues in China to migrate to Google Workspace. 

Whilst this project was mainly managed remotely from the UK, I really enjoyed the chance to get hands-on experience supporting the team when I spent 2 weeks out in Shanghai and Shenzhen with them.

Soon after this trip, I was promoted to Senior Service Desk Analyst and held this role until April 2017 when I moved to my current role as a Software Operations Engineer with the Business Services Team, whose main responsibility is supporting, fixing and improving the services and applications used by our Supply Chain, Finance and Commercial colleagues.”

A day in the life of a Software Operations Engineer 

Jade's role involves addressing incidents, diving into lines of code to identify issues, and crafting solutions to ensure smooth operations. 

As a Software Engineer, she primarily works with UniVerse, a specialized language, and standard tools like Git and GitLab. However, exciting upgrades are on the horizon, allowing her to venture into Python, Javascript, and Java.

What has kept you at Travis Perkins plc? 

“I’ve found a role where I enjoy my day job and get on with the people I work with. My team and colleagues are like my family and the people are just amazing. 

I also have the opportunity to get involved with the many Diversity, Equity & Inclusion networks we have.

Travis Perkins is probably the first and only company I’ve been able to say I’ve been proud to work for and that genuinely feels like a family - our colleagues just want to see each other succeed and live our best lives! 

We genuinely care, and we will change the industry - be a part of it!” 

Our colleagues are passionate about making a difference, and do this through owning and living our values. In fact, ‘we care’ is one of our core values - this means we look after each other's safety and well-being, treat people with respect and encourage everyone to be themselves.

Be your authentic self at Travis Perkins plc 

We want everyone to be at their best and it’s our ambition that everyone within our Group feels confident to be their authentic selves and that they belong. Alongside the ACE network, we also have four other networks for different communities within our business. 

• Ability - for our colleagues who have hidden and visible disabilities to long-term health conditions. 
• Proud - for our colleagues in the LGBTQ+ community. 
• Balance for Better - for our colleagues who are allies in challenging gender imbalance. 
• Youth - for young people in the business to share insight, opinions and experiences. 

Jade's story is a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion, showcasing the strides made within our Group.

As we celebrate Black History Month, we are highlighting Jade's contributions and all of the talent and perspectives that make Travis Perkins plc an exceptional place to work. 

Become a part of a community that values the potential of every colleague. 

Apply for opportunities at Travis Perkins plc and contribute to a culture that nurtures growth, empowers, and stands together for a better tomorrow.