We're proud to spotlight Francesca Prince, Group HR Project Manager and L&D Support Manager at Sytner, in this week’s edition of our 'Women in the Driver’s Seat' series.
How long have you been in the automotive industry?
I have worked at Sytner Group for 11 years. However, I also worked for the company while I was at
university as a weekend receptionist/host at Sytner Leicester.
Can you share a few sentences about your career journey in the automotive industry?
As mentioned, I briefly worked as a receptionist/host while at university. After graduating, I obtained full-
time employment with another company in a different sector. In 2013, I started my family when my
daughter was born, and during my maternity leave, I became aware of a part-time role at Sytner Group.
The role — Personal Assistant to the Director of Human Resources — not only utilized my skillset but also
fit perfectly with my new family life. I remained in this role for three years before going on maternity leave
again to have my son. While I was on leave, a new role was created, HR Project Manager. I felt this was the
next steppingstone in my career but, also meant I could continue working for the Director of Human
Resources within Sytner Group.
What do you enjoy most about working in the automotive industry?
I appreciate the beautiful and luxurious cars we are fortunate enough to work with at Sytner Group — it
definitely makes the role more enjoyable! I also feel very fortunate that no two days are the same,
and my role is extremely varied. As the industry is ever evolving it requires continuous learning and
adaptation, whether that be through new projects or the roll-out of new learning across the business – we
always have to be ahead of the game.
Can you describe a key initiative or project you’ve led or contributed to that made a meaningful impact
on the business?
In 2017, I was asked to project manage our ‘Elite Technician’ program. I’ve led the program each year since,
and now in its eighth year, the competition continues to go from strength to strength. Our highly skilled
technicians play a vital role in the success of our business, they are its backbone, and this competition
recognizes their importance. Their expertise keeps our customers on the road, therefore the importance of
our technicians and the competition can’t be understated. It’s really rewarding to see such an important
program through each year and watch the finalists receive well-deserved recognition for their hard work.
I personal feel a huge sense of pride being part of something so special and unique!
What are your standout strengths?
I’m someone who “just gets things done.” People often bring tasks to me because they know I will follow
through. I try to work quickly and effectively while always aiming to find solutions. I focus on what needs
to be done and then find a way to make it happen!
What are your favorite hobbies or interests?
As a family, we’re avid rugby fans and hold season tickets for our home team - Leicester Tigers!
We absolutely love attending the games, although I have to admit I still don’t understand all the rules!
What’s your favorite motivational song or songs?
My favorite song is ‘Get Here’ by Oleta Adams. I find it super motivational, it’s also special because
it was me and my husband’s wedding song. It’s about determination – if you want something enough,
you can make it happen.
What’s your go-to book, podcast, TV show, or movie?
Yellowstone for sure is my favorite TV show! It’s an absolutely brilliant series that really captivates
the audience with its powerful narrative. I have a degree in history, so the history of Native Americans
and the complexity of issues around the land is really interesting to me.
What motivates you each day?
As cliché as it may sound – my family. I always want them to be proud of me, and I work hard to provide
us with the best life I can. My 10-year-old daughter often says she wants to work in HR for Sytner Group
just like me, and that means everything to me. Being a full-time working mom and setting the right
example for my children is really important. I want them to know they can have both a career and family
life.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in the automotive industry?
Just do it - take the plunge. It might seem really scary, but in reality it’s far from it. There are so many roles
within the automotive industry that people just don’t think about in various departments. Every role plays
a part in making the business work overall. The industry offers roles in everything from engineering and
design to sales and marketing, there is something for everyone.