14/05/2026
I was catching up on Insta tonight and I came across this post that reminded me of my mentor, my first boss, a long time friend & someone I will always have the utmost respect for.
I showed up in Auckland as a fresh off the farm 20 year old looking for a job.
In what?? I had no idea.
I remember flicking through the Manukau courier and seeing "receptionist wanted" no experience needed, must be willing to learn. I applied for the job, turned up to the office for the interview & ended up talking to the CEO for about an hour about everything except the job π€π€
As soon as he found out I was from Taumarunui away he went talking about the old train tracks, sawmills & how he was helping do up a old train in Ongarue at the time.
Old trains, tracks & their history was his hobby & he held so much history about our town & surroundings and over the years I learnt so much from him.
He took a chance & he gave me the job. I had no idea about being a receptionist or what the heck freight forwarding was but with his belief in me & help of a few long standing staff members who were very patient I learnt the trade.
Many mornings were spent taking his cuppa tea to his office then sitting across his desk discussing all the questions I had about freight and in turn him telling me about train stuff.
Ian Jenner eventhough your not here today you will never know the amazing impact you had on my life. You were always patient, willing to teach others, humble & a leader who always believed everyone was equal even the hory receptionist fresh off the farm ππ
Roll on 30 years and Ive been back working for his company for the last 7 years. No longer that shy girl but a confident, hard working, resilient woman in a industry that has allowed me to live & experience many great things in my life.
Forever grateful to this man who's photo sits on my desk along side my own dad I will never forget the chance he took on me β€οΈβ€οΈ
Thank you Ian π«‘π«‘
