Business

Why all's so well in Natalie's world . . .

In the High Flyers spotlight this week is complementary therapist Natalie Nugent (41), who established Complete Wellness Therapies four years ago in Lisburn. She is married with three daughters.

What was your first job?

After university I got a job as a cashier with Ulster Bank. From gaining this experience I was able to move to an assistant lending manager position with HBOS. Almost 12 years later I decided to embark on a completely different career path into the world of complementary therapies, and since opening my own Wellness Centre I haven't looked back.

What qualifications do you have?

I have a BA from Queen's University along with diplomas in reflexology, aromatherapy body massage, fertility and pregnancy treatments.

What do you attribute your success to?

I have always been extremely ambitious, driven and hard working. I have a strong inner self-belief that I can be successful as long as I'm passionate about the topic.

How would you describe yourself to someone who'd never met you?

Friendly, chatty and approachable. I love hearing about people's lives and how they've dealt with different obstacles they've come across.

Who do you look up to in business?

Susie Ma, the founder of Tropic Skincare Products. As well as running my wellness centre, Complete Wellness Therapies in Lisburn, I also sell tropic skincare products. Susie has not only created an award-winning brand, she is passionate about creating a healthier, greener and more empowered world. She has grown her business from scratch to a multi million pound success and is very active in giving back to many charities.

How do you get the best out of people who work for you?

I always treat people how I would want to be treated. Being fair and flexible with people really helps so that we can all work together in a stress free environment. Mutual respect goes a long way.

If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?

Fortunately as I run a wellness centre, doing business in Northern Ireland is perfect for me, so I wouldn't need to change anything about it. In fact, it's great for what I do as I get so many word of mouth recommendations.

What website or app could you not do without?

I use an app called Shedul which organises our online booking system - it's fabulous! All our therapists available time slots for appointments are listed together with who provides which treatments. It also sends out automated reminder emails to our clients. It's a great asset and one I couldn't do without!

What was the last book you read?

A. Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty. It's very inspirational and empowering and allows us to put into practice steps to lead a more positive, stress free life.

What car do you drive?

A Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I'm really interested in fertility and how it's become so common that couples are struggling to conceive. I love reading up on alternative ways to help with this, whilst also researching the science behind it.

What’s your greatest passion outside of work and family?

I love the great outdoors, nature and camping. Being by the sea is great for the soul.