Kerry Whitaker, Regional Development Manager

I joined BEN in July 2010 as Regional Development Manager for London (North) and East Anglia. Based at home and having lived in Essex for the past 25 years (yes, BEN has its own Essex girl), I was excited at the task of making sure that people associated in the automotive industry knew about BEN and how we supported industry colleagues in times of financial and emotional crisis.

Having worked for the charitable sector before, I was immediately impressed at the importance BEN places itself as an organisation specifically to support colleagues and people in the automotive sector either currently working, retired or having decided to change their career path and move to a different industry.

I can honestly say that this position with BEN (acquired I have to say at the tender age of over 50) has been the most satisfying and worthwhile job I have ever had. To make a difference to peoples lives by either informing them of the tremendous support system that BEN has for them in times of need or merely encouraging them to ring BEN and ask for support when they feel that every other avenue has been taken, can be most satisfying.

My life however, has always evolved around the automotive industry, since being a six month old baby and being taken to the TT Races in the Isle of Man in the front of a combination sidecar to Brands Hatch scrambling, Touring Car racing, following F1, Superbikes and MotoGP.  So that aside I can honestly say that's it's both an honour and a pleasure working for BEN.

If you would like me to visit you in the North London or Anglian Region, please feel free to contact me and I would be delighted to speak to you.