Meet the Team: Nicola Ratcliffe

In this feature, we chat with the Export Team, working hard behind the scenes to ensure customers around the globe receive their F. Ball products. 

So, Nicola, what is your role within F. Ball’s Export Team? What do you get up to day to day?

“As F. Ball’s export sales administrator, it’s my job to ensure all orders for our international customers make their way from the factory onsite at our Staffordshire headquarters and into their hands, on schedule.  

“That includes everything from liaising with both our customers and our sales teams to booking transport, ensuring all the documentation is correct and getting everything dispatched as efficiently as possible.” 

And where does F. Ball export to?

“We have a presence across all four corners of the world, exporting to over 60 countries and to every continent except Antarctica.” 

There must be challenges that come with the demands of international business?  

“International logistics can always present additional obstacles here and there, whether that’s transport delays, customs issues, or something else, but that’s my job to sort it out. 

Finally, what do you enjoy most about your job? 

“I love the variety of it. No two days are the same. Also, the chance to broaden my horizons and gain a greater understanding of what’s going on in the world”. 

“It’s interesting speaking with people from all over the world. In the past, we’ve held our Overseas Distributor Seminar, welcoming customers here for the chance to gain a better appreciation of the manufacturing process and the support that’s available to them in their respective countries. It was a great opportunity to get to meet some of our international customers in person and to build on the relationship we have, in addition to creating new relationships.” 

“I’ve spent 21 years with the company, so I think that speaks for itself when it comes to job satisfaction.”