Bill Smith

Bill Smith – Team Leader, Desktop Support

What does your job involve?
I have a variety of tasks, from help desk support through to project management work and procurement. On a day to day basis, I work alongside Karl and Matt on the helpdesk providing assistants to staff who need IT support. I process change requests for ISS (Information Support Services) equipment.. I am involved in new office setups and moves, ensuring all staff have the required systems and support needed for their job.

How long have you been working at Barnardos?
I have been working for Barnardos for almost twenty years. I got a job here in 1991, on Tuesday 10 December. I approached Barnardos for a job and they asked me to start just before Christmas.

I started out as a part-time receptionist and have been lucky enough to have a number of roles throughout the years. I was the Central Southern Regional Advisor for system admin and support up until1999. I was then the team leader of the finance and payroll team until 2002 when I joined the ISS team.

How and why did you end up working for Barnardos?
I am from the London and was working in child protection unit for the London Borough of Lewisham. I knew that Barnardos shared a common similarity with their services as they feature prominently in the UK. So, when I arrived in New Zealand, I approached the Wellington Office of Barnardos and asked for a job.

What is it about Barnardos that you like?
The main reason would have to be the immediate people I work with and the wider Barnardos whānau. We all have great fun as we go about our working day.

What is the best part about your job?
Lunchtime and going home! No, I really love helping people and the staff. Even when I receive the same phone calls time and time again for resetting passwords, it is nice to know that I have helped and my work is appreciated. I really just love the humour and atmosphere around the office.

What do you hope to achieve at Barnardos in the future?
I’m due for retirement in one year, thirty-five days and six hours…not that I’m counting. I just hope that I can continue to give outstanding service to Barnardos.