As a firm which places Employee Relations (ER) at our heart, we are proud of the amazing team here at esphr. That is why our current employee Q&A seeks to share a little more about each one of our colleagues.
Next up is our account director John Gillespie. An accomplished sales professional who’s worked for a number of HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety providers throughout his career, John has a knack for identifying commercially-focused solutions that put customers’ needs first.
1. What’s the one thing which marks esphr out as an employer of choice?
It is so refreshing to work in an environment where there is such tremendous team spirit. All colleagues are genuinely supportive and giving of their time. Opinions are actively encouraged and voices always heard.
2. What would you say if you were to explain what esphr does to an alien?
We provide employment law advice alongside intuitive HR technology solutions, allowing customers to deliver meaningful change within their organisations.
3. If you could give anyone an internal award, who would it be and what would it be for?
Sam Davies, who plays such a significant role ensuring the business runs smoothly. She is always on hand to lend support and guidance, and nothing is ever too much of an ask.
4. What is your funniest memory of someone in the team?
There are far too many to mention…
5. What keeps the job interesting for you?
Simply the depth and variety of the HR customers we work alongside. Without attempting to sound overly ‘cliched’ no two days are the same working in esphr!
6. If you hadn’t chosen/gone into the career you’re in, what other profession would you be in?
Aside to the ‘dreamy’ aspirations of being a full-time professional footballer (curtailed by a basic lack of skill, stamina, pace, ability etc.), I guess I would have chosen a career in teaching.
7. Where do you see esphr in five years’ time?
The UK’s leading go-to employment law firm with a strong reputational brand, operating across the landscape of the mid-market and enterprise sectors.
8. A little-known fact about you?
I was a guitar tutor for many years. Whilst proficient enough to impart the fundamentals of striking a chord, I was never destined to headline Glastonbury as part of a rock band!
9. If we went into lockdown again, who would you like to be locked down with and why?
My wife Deborah who is my best friend, along with my children, our tabby cat and pet hamster. Oh and a pizza delivery menu.
10. Which five celebrities (dead or alive) would you invite to a dinner party?
- Robin Williams
- Jock Stein
- Princess Diana
- Stephen King
- Van Morrison
