International Women’s Day Spotlight – Jennie Murphy
7th March 2023
Jennie Murphy – Every year on March 8th, International Women’s Day is recognised worldwide to celebrate women’s achievements throughout all areas of life. Women make up around 60% of the workforce at Direct House, and we appreciate every one of them.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2023 is #EmbraceEquity, which aims to get the world talking about “why equal opportunities aren’t enough”. Find out more about why this theme was chosen for this year here.
To celebrate this important day, we have asked our very own Jennie Murphy to outline her career achievements, what it means to be a woman in 2023 and any advice for other women looking to have a career in the debt/high court enforcement industry.
Jennie Murphy what is your current job role at DCBL?
I am the Bailiff & Allocations Manager at DCBL, and I manage the day-to-day running of the on-street enforcement team.
My day can start at any time from 6 am; I assign the daily caseload and assist with any queries/issues they have. I also oversee the internal support team, provide support to the agents, update clients and speak with debtors.
What has the journey looked like for you getting to your role as Bailiff & Allocations Manager?
It has been very hard work and a lot of determination! I started in a collections role doing 16 hours a week, and my sheer hard work led to natural progression, which led me to the role I am currently in.
Has this been something you have always wanted to do?
Yes, I’ve always been interested in debt recovery. I have worked most of my working life in this industry, I enjoy it, and every day is different.
Have there been any challenges in the lead-up to being in your current role?
Working in a male-dominated industry has meant that I have had to prove myself alongside gaining knowledge of the industry and its regulations. I also have to keep up-to-date with current regulations and developments to carry out my role.
What has been your greatest achievement throughout your career?
My greatest achievement would have to be working here at DCBL. I love my job and look forward to coming to work.
I believe we are the best at what we do, and having support from the CEO and MD helps massively.
As a woman in 2023, what would you say to your younger self?
Just go for it, regardless of what anyone else advises – if you want to do it, have a go. You will never regret not achieving, but you will regret not having a go.
Push yourself out of your comfort zone, as you never know where it will get you.
What advice would you give a woman looking to enter the Debt/High Court Enforcement or Legal industry?
Make sure you know the industry and the regulations that go with it, and do every aspect of the job role.
Know the pitfalls and any potential issues which may arise; this way you can give the best advice and give support available to the enforcement agents on the road.
Some of the women agents I have worked with have been extremely successful and should encourage other women to apply for jobs within this industry.
What hurdles have you faced as a woman during your career?
The main hurdle I have faced is working that bit harder to prove that, as a woman, I can work in a male-dominated role. I’ve had to prove that I can do the job, and that I am resilient but can also be tough when needed.
Lastly, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It gives women a voice, a platform on which to be heard. Highlights equality and diversity. Proves to the next generation that it can be done and can be done by a woman.
Inspires others and shows that we can learn from and support each other.
