Jennie says she will miss society staff after nearly 43 years
A BUILDING society worker retired after four decades with the same group.
Accounts administrator and personal assistant Jennie Shaw, 63, recently ended her near 43-year tenure with Earl Shilton Building Society.
Jennie started with the group in May 1976 as a cashier and typist after a family friend spotted the job advertisement and recommended that she apply for the role.
She said: “When I first started, I was working alone at the Barwell branch without any bandit screens, and everything was done manually rather than being inputted into a computer system.
“At the time, the society only employed 10 people, including a resident surveyor. The team has continued to grow and it is now more than 30 strong.
“During my time with ESBS, I have also seen both the head office and Barwell branch be renovated twice each.”
Over the years, Jennie has also been involved in creating direct mortgage business and back office investments, before she settled on her most recent position.
She said: “ESBS has been a fantastic place to work, and very ideal for my circumstances as a resident of the town.
“All of the 143 staff members with whom I’ve worked have been very nice, and the society is a mutual that looks after its staff by providing free non-alcoholic drinks, a weekly delivery of fruit and a uniform.”
Among her highlights, Jennie lists the society celebrating its 150th and 160th anniversaries in 2007 and 2017 respectively, taking part in 40 different AGMs, attending social events, such as day trips to Leicester Racecourse, and marking 25, 35 and 40 years of service.
She said: “I will miss all the staff and our little chats together, but as a member I will continue to call into the office for a visit.
“I’m looking forward to enjoying some relaxation in retirement, as well as spending time with my grandsons, family and friends.
“I’ll also have more time to enjoy my hobbies, which include crafts, gardening and exercise classes, and I’ll have the freedom to travel whenever I like.
“My daughter works as an air stewardess, so I’m hoping to fly to many different countries with her.”
Paul Tilley, chief executive of esbs, said: “Jennie has been an integral part of ESBS for the past four decades and her positive attitude, unwavering loyalty and dedication to her work will be sorely missed by us all.
“On behalf of everyone at the society, I would like to say a huge thank you to Jennie for all that she has done and wish her all the very best for the future.”