Sarah Philpott has been part of the Smiths Family for 36 years, joining in September 1987. She is based at Smiths Group UK and is Talent Development Specialist.
What is the key reason for you to stay at Smiths for 36 years?
People sometimes ask me how I could work for the same company for so long and the answer is simple, the company today is very different from the company I started working for all those years ago, for many reasons - including the technology we have today. I have had some great managers who have supported, encouraged, and helped me develop, a huge variety of work, along with the opportunity of working with so many different people around the world.
What is your proudest achievement at Smiths?
Beating my fear of flying years ago made me very proud. I was so terrified I had never been on a plane but encouraged by my manager, I went on a “flying without fear” course as I was requested to join a project and fly to the US. This meant that subsequently I was able to travel to various Smiths locations around the world over the years including India, Netherlands, France, Germany, Italy and the US and have met many amazing people along the way.
Tell us about one of your best moments here at Smiths?
One of my best moments was a surprise from my US colleagues to celebrate my 30th anniversary as I was over there on my anniversary date. The team took me to a baseball game, which is something I said I would like to do, and they were all looking intently at the big screen when my name came up in lights to celebrate my anniversary. I thought it was such a kind and thoughtful for thing for them to have arranged.
