Richard - CS
Introduce yourself
Self-declared 'super nerd' - my hobbies and passions are all centred around Japan! Whether this be video games, trading card games, or iconic Japanese cars, I'm obsessed with it all!
I love to learn, and have studied a very wide (and random) range of subjects. From speaking Japanese, to training zoo animals, I'm always looking for something interesting to study.
How would you describe your role to someone outside of your field?
I might have the most interesting job in the world! As fascinating as classic cars are (and we all love them here), they're rarely as interesting as the enthusiasts that own them.
My role is to welcome and assist the users of our platform, ensuring that they are comfortable and informed throughout the process, whether this be regarding payment, collection, or any unforeseen issues that arise.
How long have you been with Car & Classic, and what drew you to join the team?
I have been at C&C for close to 3 years now. Initially, it was the subject matter (epic cars!) that drew me to this position.
However, I can confidently say that the biggest perk of my job is the amazing people I work alongside. Whilst we all share an interest in these vehicles, the team's biggest passion is helping people - which makes for an awesome, and wholesome environment.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Having worked in other CS jobs, the standout highlight at C&C is definitely the variety. Due to the incredible range of not only vehicles, but user needs, my days very rarely feel the same.
What does a typical day look like for you?
They're pretty quick! Our team have a couple of meetings in the day, where we catch up socially and discuss any challenges we're facing.
Outside of these meetings, the day is primarily autonomous, which each operative prioritising their own tasks and workload.
The Car & Classic Slack is very active, and quite social, so there is usually a healthy dose of cross-department collaboration throughout the day.
Who do you work closely with, and how does your team support each other?
There is no team more supportive than the Support Team! Everyone in my department jumps at the opportunity to help each other out.
I am fortunate enough to also have daily communication with both the Sales team, and the Product team. Having these direct lines with other departments ensures that issues/important items are visible to the wider business.
Despite this being a remote job, I have never felt so socially involved at work before.
Since joining Car & Classic, what new skills have you developed or areas you’ve strengthened?
My development at Car & Classic has been turbocharged! Since joining almost 3 years ago as a 'Post-Auction Operative', I have seen my role evolve several times.
In addition to my leadership tasks within CS, I also have duties within the finance and legal departments, too.
These new challenges have been incredibly fun, and would not have been possible without the collaboration and tutoring of the amazing people at C&C.
Due to the 'open door' policy at C&C, combined with the rapid-growth mindset of the business, I have had an unending list of opportunities to develop and further my skills, and am sure there are many more to come.
Is there something you’ve achieved here that you’re especially proud of?
To date my biggest accomplishment is the planning, implementing and managing of the Disputes Department at Car & Classic. Having identified the need for such a process within my first year, C&C recognised the project's potential and allowed me to run with it. This has been an incredibly fun and unique opportunity.
What’s been your favourite moment working at Car & Classic?
As awesome as the in-person events have been, my favourite moments are the personal chats I'm able to have with users of the platform.
For many of them, purchasing a classic car has been a lifelong dream, and being a part of that is always fun.
How would you describe the Car & Classic culture? How does this resonate with you?
Open door, lots of collaboration.
People are always open to hear new ideas and suggestions. As someone who is always hungry to learn and develop, this has been a huge plus for me.
What car or bike on Car & Classic would you love to drive?
Toyota MR2 (W20). It's not the fastest, or the flashiest, but it's definitely the coolest.
How would you describe Car & Classic in just three words?
Incredibly passionate people
What surprised you the most about your team or the work environment when you first joined?
The level of autonomy was a welcome surprise. Remote positions tend to have this to an extent, but Car & Classic are second to none.
There is always a long list of people to help, whom are just a message/call away. But your day is your own to structure and execute, and I really appreciate that.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering a role like yours?
Organisation is everything. Due to the unpredictable nature of a CS position, and the level of autonomy provided, you need to be well organised.
Take notes throughout the day, set yourself reminders, and prioritise important tasks first - this is an absolute must.