Lynda Somers
Project Manager KTL
“No two jobs are alike, which means I’ve been constantly learning and adapting, and problem-solving along the way.”
Tell us about yourself?
I’m from outside Mullingar, Westmeath. I completed a degree in Transport Operations and Logistics at DIT Bolton Street in 2011, now TU Dublin. During my degree, I had the opportunity to work for KTL for five months. They were implementing a new computer-based logging system in the warehouse at the time I found this a great learning experience. I worked alongside Paddy Brogan and Donal Gray. KTL was based in Maynooth at the time, and I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. I learned that Paddy lived only a stone’s throw from where I’m from in Westmeath, and Donal and I had good banter over who liked the better rock music!
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When I completed my degree, I was asked back to KTL to help on a new project and I would see from there – fast forward 10 years and I’m still working for KTL!
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What does your role involve?
My role involves working on planning jobs. This is something totally new to me, so I still have a big learning curve, but it is good to see when a project gets completed to the end.
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How has your role evolved while at KTL?
I have progressed into many roles over my decade with KTL. From starting out in logistics, receptionist, and admin support, I then moved into a project coordinator role and after a couple of years I progressed to junior project manager role, and then into my current role as project manager. With KTL’s support, I’ve recently completed a project management course, which gave me more insight into the role of project manager from an outside point of view. Obviously, I would have seen the process within KTL but was good to have another look at how things worked.
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Could you describe your journey with KTL?
My journey with KTL has been a roller-coaster! No two jobs are alike, which means I’ve been constantly learning and adapting, and problem-solving along the way.
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How would you describe the KTL culture?
Intense, but I think that’s why I enjoy it. Some days will go by easy and straightforward, and on other days everything that could go wrong will go wrong. But then when you find a solution to a problem, it feels like you are really are doing your job right.
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What do you enjoy most about working at KTL?
It is the people. I can ask a question and get help no matter what the issue may be. Also, even if there isn’t an issue, and you need help with something totally out of the blue, there are so many people with different qualities and skills, that are willing and able to help.
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Where do you see yourself in the future?
I am immersed in learning my new role and my aim is to do it justice and add value.
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To find out more about working for KTL, visit https://www.ktl.ie/careers
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