This week, we’re saying hello to Jess Spendlove, our new operations delivery lead. From eight years in the music industry, to building a life in the South West, here’s a little more about Jess and what she’s excited to be working on at Seccl.
Where are you from, and where are you based now?
I was born and bred in Newcastle, but I moved to London with my mum when I was 11. This was a big change, but I’m grateful for it and how it has shaped my life.
I’m now based in Bradford on Avon, just outside Bath, where I live with my husband.
Can you tell us about your career journey before Seccl?
Following my studies at the University of Kent, I moved back to London and started a job in the music industry, where I spent almost eight years. I learned a great deal, and it gave me a lot of the values I still hold today.
After relocating to Bath, I moved into a role in probate, and later joined Novia Financial when I was ready for a new challenge. Both roles were fantastic places to work – I met some of my closest friends there and really built a life in the South West with my husband.
I was then lucky enough to find myself at Seccl, and it genuinely feels like the right place for this next chapter.
What attracted you to Seccl?
I’d heard really positive things about Seccl, and it felt like the kind of place where people are encouraged to be themselves. I was looking for an environment where ideas are welcomed, voices are heard, and where you can truly make a difference.
After my first interview, I had a really strong sense that the culture was positive and open. It’s rare to find a company that’s honest and transparent from the very top all the way down, but Seccl truly is – and it’s clear how much they care about their people.
How have your first few weeks been?
Busy, exciting, and incredibly welcoming.
Everyone has been genuinely lovely, and people are always happy to give their time to help you learn or talk things through. There’s always something happening, and while the busy periods can be very busy, you always feel supported – there’s never a sense that you’re on your own.
What are you most excited about working on at Seccl?
My team are amazing, and that makes such a difference. We’ve got a lot of improvements and process changes ahead of us, but everyone turns up every day ready to take on the challenge – often with a good GIF or two to keep things fun.
I’m really excited to look back in 12 months time and see everything we’ve achieved together, from the big changes to the small improvements that make everyday work better.
I also really value that Seccl has a Belonging Group, which I’ve started to get involved with. It’s a brilliant initiative that focuses on creating a safe, inclusive space and giving people a platform to share their voices and experiences.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m Geordie! I had to lose my accent pretty quickly when I moved to London, so people often struggle to place where I’m from. But I’m proudly half Geordie and half Scottish!
Any unexpected hobbies or hidden talents? We love a fun fact.
I love rugby, wine, and pizza.
I’d also love to learn to play the piano one day. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and maybe this is the year I finally book some lessons.
