At Lester Aldridge, we are proud of the fact that we have many employees and partners who have been with the firm for a significant amount of time, many over 20 years, with the longest being with us for an incredible 42 years!
We will be running a series of interviews to celebrate our colleagues’ service by highlighting their successes with the firm and sharing their experiences of how Lester Aldridge has changed over the years.
This month, we shine the spotlight on Varden Ede, Facilities Supervisor, who is celebrating his 20th year with the firm.
When did you join the firm and in what role? How has your role changed over the years?
I was originally a temp as an Office Services Clerk, starting in March 2001 for 8 weeks. The position then became available as a full-time job, so I officially started in LA on May 1st 2001. The following year, I became Senior Office Services Clerk, which was later changed to be called Facilities Supervisor. When I started, the job was dealing with all incoming and outgoing post and ensuring stationery supplies were ok on the floors. In my current role, I now deal with ordering from suppliers, dealing with contractors etc. But I still get to go onto the floors and see everyone.
How have things changed at Lester Aldridge over the years?
Obviously, I have seen many people join and leave the company so have met many different (and interesting) people over the years. The improved archiving storage (from units dotted around the area to a large purpose-built office in Hurn) was a great improvement. There seems to be less physical post than when I first started (presumably more sent by email) but still enough to keep us occupied.
How has technology changed over the years and how has this impacted your role?
Updating equipment in the post room has enabled us to improve the services we can offer (replacing franking machine/letter inserter etc. with more modern versions) and suppliers having online facilities to make orders/store past orders instead of phoning and having piles of paper!! Also, online training is better as you can complete it at your own pace.
What is the proudest moment from your career at Lester Aldridge?
When I got voted “LA personality of the Year”, which was voted for by all members of staff. It was nice to be appreciated by my colleagues.
What has made you stay with Lester Aldridge for 20 years?
I like the fact that you are treated as a person, not just an employee.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Being mobile, rather than staying at my desk, talking to people face to face rather than by phone/email.
Describe what LA means to you.
I have to work, so it’s good to be with people I like!!
Interested in a career at Lester Aldridge?
Whether you’re interested in a career in law or working in a support role, we have opportunities to suit everyone. View our vacancies.
