General manager, now accounts manager, Wendy Hay is starting a new career after 26 years at GT Tyres
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THE general manager of a local business is leaving to start a new career after nearly three decades in Forres.
Wendy Hay (49), from Lhanbryde, started at GT Tyres on the Greshop Industrial Estate in 1996 as an office assistant, progressing to office manager then her current role in the following decades.
However, Wendy feels the time is right to start afresh, despite leaving her beloved colleagues behind.
She said: “I’ve enjoyed working with our small team over the years – especially workshop manager, George Cameron, and agricultural tyre technician, Gary Black. Gary and I have worked together since day one while George has worked here for 17 years. We’re like a family – we’ve good days and bad days but teamwork makes the dream work!”
George explained he, Wendy and Gary have worked together since he joined in 2005.
He said: “We’ve been through a lot and achieved great things.
“Wendy is an honest, dedicated and hard working friend. She’ll be massively missed... as will her mother’s soup and home bakes!
“I wish her all the best in her new chapter.”
GT Tyres feature a wide selection of choice for most vehicles – the staff offer expert advise and fittings. The company once had depots in Keith and Huntly, as well as Forres.
“It was not uncommon for us to work in all three in the same day,” said Wendy. “There have been many changes over the years. In 2013 the Keith depot was closed and in 2017, Huntly. All the staff were transferred to Forres.”
Wendy confirmed GT’s customers are another reason she has stayed with the company for so long.
She said: “Many are from outwith Forres but most are part of the family! I’ve seen them coming into the depot with their families for years and watched their children grow. It’s good to have a chat and a laugh with them.
“Some customers even pop in just to say hello – it’s lovely! I will keep in touch with everyone.”
Wendy’s family’s connection to Forres meant she was almost destined to work here, despite being from the other side of Elgin.
She explained: “My mum was brought up with her family at Logie. Later my granny and grandad moved to Forres so I spent school holidays here.
“Little did I know that I would be travelling back and forth for over 25 years!”
Wendy is the new accounts administrator at Alan Milne, Elgin, less than three miles from home.
She added: “I’ve always said I’d like to work closer to home.
“I’m proud of my achievements at GT Tyres considering it’s a male-orientated environment – but it’s time for a change.”
