No Wrong Path: Lindsey, from Office Junior to Business Development Director

Our 'No wrong path’ stories support the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) campaign for young people who may feel disheartened by their exam results or aren’t sure what their next step after school should be. Colleagues from across Team Robertson who were in that same position share their experiences of leaving school and getting to where they are now – and show that there’s no right or wrong path.

Disruptive at school, Lindsey often ended up with a desk outside the deputy head’s office. Here she talks about her youth, the people who shaped her ambitions and her pathway to Business Development Director. 

What was school like for you?

It was challenging. I was disruptive – so much so I was suspended three times from high school and ended up with a desk outside the deputy head’s office. But rather than give up on me he became a mentor, offering guidance and holding me accountable for my behaviour. I later discovered that I’m neurodiverse which wasn’t recognised at the time. Despite the struggles I left school with 11 GCSEs, proving that with the right support, change is possible.

You had ambitions to be a barrister?

Growing up in an area marked by poverty and crime, there weren’t many role models around. It wasn’t unusual to find myself in court supporting a friend who was facing charges, and it seemed like the barrister was the only person truly advocating for them. That left a mark on me – I wanted to be that person, to make something of myself and help people, have money and drive a nice car. 

I enrolled at college for A-levels and started the path to becoming a barrister. However, the reality didn’t match my expectations. I thought I’d be diving into real criminal cases, but it felt disconnected and uninspiring. Within a few months, I was bored and ended up leaving.

What was your route into construction?

When I left college in the December my mother told me I had to get a job (or get out!). I met with a Careers Adviser and applied for an office junior position at a local civil engineering company, which I secured. I showed my eagerness to work and learn which was recognised, and I was given extra responsibilities including marketing activities. 

You were soon promoted? 

I received positive feedback and was approached by the construction division of the same company and subsequently moved within the business. Two years later I was promoted to Marketing and Aftercare Manager which expanded my experience in the construction environment. My role was to look after projects throughout the project lifecycle – and ensure complete customer satisfaction.

The company you were working for was bought over which changed the course of your career, tell us about that:

That was a pivotal moment in my career. When the company was bought out, 20 of us who held similar roles were told there was only one position available – it was offered to me and it’s where I spent the next 12 years of my career.

Rather than marketing, the focus was on business development. I was encouraged to do a BA (Hons) Business and Management which, balancing a full-time job and a two-year old child, made it incredibly challenging at home. It was hard work but I knew it was an investment in my future.

I had a growing interest in business strategy and quickly progressed to Business Development Manager responsible for the whole of England, Scotland and Wales and newer customers in Ireland. In 2018 I joined Robertson Yorkshire East Midlands as Business Development Manager and progressed through to Business Development Director.

What drives you in your career? 

I’m driven by a deep desire to do the best job I possibly can – not just for myself, but for my children. I want to give them a life different from how mine was growing up, to have everything they need and see their mum as someone they can look up to – a strong, positive role model. I take pride in my work and always strive for perfection, because I believe that doing things well matters. That mindset pushes me forward every day.

What advice do you have for any young person getting their grades this week who may be disappointed or not sure what to do next?

Who you are isn’t defined by your grades – it’s shaped by your character, your drive and your passion. If there’s something you want to do, go for it. Right now, it might feel like certain careers are out of reach, but the opportunities are out there.

Think about vocational routes – they can be a brilliant option, especially if you’re someone who learns best by doing. Apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships are fantastic pathways: you earn while you learn, gain real-world experience, and avoid student debt. That route worked well for me, and it could be the start of something great for you too.