In this article we are shining a spotlight on Copart’s Operation Centre in Wolverhampton. Copart Wolverhampton specialises in the sale of agricultural vehicles, as well as selling thousands of other used and salvage vehicles each year, including motorcycles, vans, HGVs and more.
At Copart, we are proud to support and encourage greater gender balance within the automotive industry. We are passionate about maintaining a well-balanced workforce across all areas of our business, including our senior management team, and strive to be a positive example of best practice.
A recent new addition to Copart’s management team is Natalie Linton, General Manager at Copart Wolverhampton.
Her career has also provided her with extensive experience in customer service, business improvement, projects, and people management – all of which are perfectly aligned with Copart’s ethos to continuously improve and provide world-class customer service.
Having recently commenced her position at Wolverhampton, following a comprehensive induction across our Operation Centres in Rochford, Sandwich and York, Natalie took some time out to talk about the skills she brings to our business and her Copart journey so far.
Tell us about the transferable skills and experience you bring to Copart…
I have worked in retail for over 23 years, starting my career with Safeway before holding various senior roles at Morrison’s including Personnel Manager, Deputy Manager and Store Manager. I have worked in many different stores of varying sizes, from 8,000 to 45,000 square feet.
I then joined Iceland where I was responsible for opening their first ever online pick centre, before working across a variety of areas (including North Wales, Bedford and Nottingham) as an Area Manager where I was responsible for on average 15 stores.
I thoroughly enjoy leading a team and my experience from my time in the retail industry has certainly helped to prepare me for managing the people and processes for a company the size and scale of Copart!
I believe my strong leadership skills will enable me to create a culture whereby an engaged team will work together to succeed and support the Copart Mission, Vision and Values. I also enjoy bringing out the best in my people, so I’m delighted to join a company like Copart which is committed to investing into the training and personal development of its people.
What was your own experience of training at Copart?
I experienced a fantastic on–boarding program that enabled me to both spend time in both my own Operation Centre in Wolverhampton and a variety of other Copart Operation Centres across the UK, where I spent quality time with the General Managers and their teams.
I experienced all parts of the Copart journey, from vehicle processing and office functions to going out on the road with a driver to collect and deliver vehicles. This meant I gained a sound knowledge and understanding of the General Manager role.
Everyone involved in my training were extremely accommodating and knowledgeable. When I initially researched the business prior to joining, I was intrigued and excited by what I was reading especially around people and culture, and my first impressions certainly didn’t disappoint!
Which part of the role are you enjoying the most so far?
I am excited about having the ability to impact and drive change across the business. I’ve already been involved in some interesting new projects, including helping to implement and re-set processes around the Field Quality Review preparation (FQR) and follow-through.
I’ve also been looking at opportunities around Copart’s ‘Best Possible Light’ initiative – which focuses on how teammates can fully maximise the potential value of the vehicles we sell – and thinking of ideas to get my team engaged around this.
What are you looking forward to achieving in the future?
I’ll be reviewing services across my Operation Centre, with a focus on how can meet and exceed Copart’s high standards. I want to ensure that Members and Sellers are happy with the services they receive and are not only returning but are also telling their friends and family about how great Copart is!
There are plenty of opportunities around capitalising the sales value of vehicles, particularly around run and drive status, I will be ensuring that teammates understand how they can impact and make a difference by ensuring the ‘best possible light’ of all vehicles is seen at all times.
Despite over 23 years in retail, I can honestly say my transition has felt extremely natural. I have really enjoyed my time within the business so far and feel like I have been part of the Copart Family for years.
I am looking forward to the year ahead and making a difference!
Interested in a career with Copart? Find out more at copart.co.uk/jobs.