Maria Mackie - General Manager - HR Services (TFS and KINTO)

How long have you been a part of the Toyota family, and how did your journey begin with the?company?

I have been in the Toyota family for 12 years.

My journey began in what was known then as the Regional HR and Training team, supporting Europe and Africa region.

What is your role, and could you provide a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for you?

My current role is General Manager, HR Services.

Every day really does differ not only day to day, but hour to hour. A day could include a department or committee meeting, a session supporting or advising a manager, or a reward strategy discussion for one of the companies I support, whether that be Toyota Finance, KINTO UK or KINTO Join. Another day could be focused on talent acquisition or a graduate Assessment Centre.

I know it's a cliché, but no two days are the same!

Tell us about your most rewarding experience, or your favourite memory from your time so far at TFS?

The most rewarding part of being in the People and Culture team and in my role as a leader, is supporting others, seeing others learn, grow, and meet their aspirations in the organisation. Nothing beats it.

Oh, and I suppose, going back a few years now - a memory of me and my team dressing up as giant bananas and strawberries for a health and wellbeing initiative, this always brings a smile to my face!

What advice would you give to someone starting their career at TFS?

I'll pass on the best advice I was given, which was, quite simply, to 'take opportunities' and keep learning.

At TFS continuous improvement is essential. How does TFS support your growth and skill development?

During my time here I have been fortunate enough to have completed a 2-year secondment at Toyota (GB) plc , which broadened my knowledge and network.

I've had an internal coach as well as the opportunity to work on projects that span across the different companies within the wider group, not to mention the huge catalogue of training that has been available to me and my colleagues over the years.

What does a perfect weekend look like for you?

Taking a Taekwondo class with my little boy, and time with my two cheeky African Grey parrots. Ideally the sun is out, the parrots take a trip outside to their aviary in the garden, and I am sipping a cold beverage!

What are you currently watching, reading, or listening to?

I'm partial to the odd podcast, but my guilty pleasure is that I thoroughly enjoyed the return of Gladiators!

Who are the three people you would invite to your dream dinner party, and why?

It's got to be our late Queen, who will have seen and heard so much over her reign, I would ask her where she found her courage, and what her experience has taught her.

I'd lighten the mood by inviting Alex Horne, comedian from the Taskmaster show - to provide us with some amusing activities and musical entertainment - does inviting his band members take me over the three people limit?