In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Jackie Elliott, commercial director at AbbeyAutoline
What was your first job?
My first job was working in a local newsagent when I was 14 years old.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a BA (hons) business studies degree with a diploma in industrial studies and I have my ACII.
What do you attribute your success to?
I think it’s a can-do attitude, a willingness to learn and to take on any task that comes my way. I have always had drive and ambition, they are key factors to any success.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I would say I was hard working, determined (some might say stubborn), supportive and loyal.
Who do you look up to in business?
I look up to all those small businesses who have learned to adapt and, in many cases, thrive through the pandemic and those that are just getting back on their feet in the new normal as we all continue to adjust as best we can. I am in awe of the businesses in my local community who came together to provide support for those most vulnerable during lockdown, they truly deserve our admiration and support.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I would never ask anyone to do something I wasn’t willing to do myself and I always do what I say I am going to do. I lead by example and place emphasis on working as a team to get things done.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
The Brexit rules and regulations are having a significant impact on businesses, even our own and has created many restrictions I think we could do without in these turbulent economic times.
What website or app could you not do without?
I think I would have to go with LinkedIn.
What was the last book you read?
Bears in the night (children’s book) to my four-year old!
What car do you drive?
Audi Q5
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
Until my kids came along, I was a fairly successful navigator competing in rallies throughout Ireland and beyond. I competed in Rally Trinidad in 2015, which was an adventure.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
I am passionate about motor sport, in particular rallying - not just competing but organising rallies for my local motor club, and until recently I was on their committee for 20 years and was the chairperson and director of the club for a number of years.
