Meet our people

Employee profiles

Choose an employee to find out what it's really like to work for us:

• Wendy Thomas
• Paul Bird
• Sharon Croft
• Lynsey Blamford
• Alison Hooper
• Mike Newall
• Emmy Ward
• Lee Crawley
• Rakesh Patel

'Training is done in such a way as to ultimately provide you with a solid structure of support.'

What previous work experience did you have before applying to Imperial Tobacco?

I was 35 when I joined Imperial Tobacco, so had a few years work experience under my belt! Whilst I was a student I had done the usual part-time and vacation jobs, primarily in sales for independent retailers and in car insurance. After graduating with my Sports Science degree I worked as a gym instructor before moving to London and setting up my own business as a Personal Fitness Instructor.

Why did you apply to Imperial Tobacco?

Imperial Tobacco is a well established and hugely respected company within the UK and applying offered the chance of working in a stable but dynamic industry, with real opportunities for promotion and career progression.

What are the main challenges in your role?

The main challenges of working as a Field Sales Representative are primarily linked to the increasing regulations relating to Tobacco and the fact that I work in a very competitive market, that's why the relationships I have built with my Traders are so important.

What kind of training have you had?

The training with Imperial Tobacco has been excellent! Following an initial training period of 6 weeks I received on-going training and support for a further 6 months until I became a Field Sales Rep. Reps are gradually introduced to all aspects of Imperial Tobacco's operations and given a thorough background in its product portfolio. Even after this time there have been additional training courses and I already have some more scheduled for later this year. Training is done in such a way as to ultimately provide you with a solid structure of support and access to further information if and when you need it.

How would you describe the company culture?

I would say that Imperial Tobacco's culture is dynamic and energetic … a true “work hard, play hard� company.

Tell us three things you like about the job?

As a Field Sales Representative the three things that I value most about my job are the flexibility to manage the day-to-day running of my area, the challenges of working in such a fast-paced industry and my ever-changing working environment.

What would you say to anyone thinking about joining Imperial Tobacco?

Basically - go for it! Imperial Tobacco has one of the largest and most respected sales forces in the UK (if not Europe), training and support is second-to-none and they offer a very generous package to employees. Whilst the job can be demanding the company is supportive and encourages individuals to progress their careers through hard work and dedication ... the rewards of working for this truly global company only being limited by your own imagination.

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Information is correct at 10 March 2008.