Catherine Tsang, 31
Business Manager, Bromley
Degree: Music
- What do you do?
- I run a high volume shopping centre restaurant, but really there isn't one definition that fits the title of Business Manager. We cover everything from recruitment, retention and local marketing to management and staff development, sales building and account controls.
- What's your story?
- I've been a Business Manager for about five years now. I started when I was at college, working Thursday nights and weekends. Throughout university I worked during the holidays, and afterwards I took a year out to work at McDonald's full-time and get some experience. I haven't looked back.
- How have you developed and grown?
- I'm accountable for so many different areas that I feel I've gained the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in any type of business. The skills you learn don't pigeon hole you – they are totally transferable. I'm confident enough in myself to think I could start my own business if I wanted to.
- What are your rewards and benefits?
- Your efforts and achievements are really recognised here. The year before last I was given a week's holiday in a company villa. This year I was put forward to represent my group for the Employer of Excellence award.
- Have you had to deal with any negative perceptions of your job?
- When I started my parents didn't think much of my choice. This can often be the case because people don't see the full picture or understand the enormity of the job. They think it's just flipping burgers. But as I've worked my way up, my parents have seen for themselves the different ways in which I've benefited, and their perception has changed entirely. As well as meeting so many friends and my partner, I've made a successful career here – and they are proud of me for that.
- Do you have work/life balance?
- I'm a mum, a classically trained pianist and flutist, and I exercise regularly. Fortunately, McDonald's enables me to lead an active life outside work and have a successful career. Work/life balance is a priority here. They empower managers to take control of their own time, so as long as the needs of my restaurant and people are fulfilled and I've achieved everything I need to achieve, there's no problem with me writing my own schedule. I now work a four day week.
- What makes a good Business Manager?
- You need to be ambitious, driven and see the best in everyone. You'll have high standards and strive to do the best you can. It's all very well McDonald's having high standards, but you have to take pride in what you do as well. If you use the skills McDonald's give you then you will succeed.
- What does the future hold?
- The next natural step for me is Operations Consultant. However, I'd really like to branch off into a Head Office role. Thanks to a transparent and open culture, Head Office vacancies are issued to operations staff as well. There are no boundaries here and natural progression is encouraged.
- Best bit?
- I've met so many incredible people: those who are a bit worldlier than I am and those who are an inspiration to me, having achieved things that I now aim for.