From Lawns to Leadership: A 25-Year Journey at Metlifecare

From Lawns to Leadership: A 25-Year Journey at Metlifecare

Kerensa's journey with Metlifecare began unexpectedly, thanks to a family connection. Her husband's uncle was overseeing the construction of Longford Park Village. During the early stages of construction, they needed someone to mow the lawns, and her husband, who was working as a painter at the village, volunteered her services. At the time, Kerensa was working at a daycare centre as a cook and meet-and-greet host, but she had some spare time, so she decided to help.

As the village grew, so did the lawn care demand, eventually becoming too much to handle alongside her other commitments. Then, in 1998, a role for a Serviced Apartment Hostess was advertised, and she decided to apply. Kerensa enjoyed this position immensely.

In 2002, a full-time receptionist role became available. The Village Manager, who had noticed her warm interactions with residents and visitors, encouraged her to apply. Initially, she was hesitant, feeling she lacked the necessary skills and experience — she couldn’t even type! But the manager saw potential in her and gave her the confidence to step forward. It turned out he was right; Kerensa loved being a receptionist.

Kerensa's move into sales was inspired by conversations with Angela Chambers, the Sales Executive at the time, and Alan Edwards, then CEO. They believed her genuine interactions with clients and residents made her an ideal candidate for a sales role. When a position opened at a sister village, Hillsborough Heights, in 2006, they encouraged her to apply. After two years at Hillsborough Heights in the role, she returned to Longford Park Village.

After 18 years at Metlifecare, and having held six different positions, Kerensa decided to resign and move to Mangawhai with her husband for a new adventure. She worked at an exclusive golf club for eight months before receiving a call from her former boss at Metlifecare, asking if she would consider returning to take on a sales position at Hibiscus Coast Village. Though she enjoyed her time at the golf club, Kerensa missed the village lifestyle and the amazing people, so she eagerly accepted the offer to return.

Transitioning to a sales role came with significant challenges and more responsibilities. Kerensa quickly realised that to succeed, she needed to fully understand Occupation Right Agreements and various regulations. She read extensively and leaned on the support of her colleagues, who generously shared their knowledge and time.

Her varied early roles — from working in the kitchen, reception, cleaning, to gardening — gave her a deep appreciation for each team member's contributions to village life. This understanding was instrumental in her success in sales, enabling her to relate better to the diverse needs of residents and appreciate the importance of every aspect of village life.

"For me, 2023 was one of those years when everything just seemed to come together," Kerensa reflects. "It might have looked easy, but in reality, it was the result of years of hard work, understanding my role, my buyers, my residents, and my community. Building relationships, supporting networks, and fostering trust with the village, sales, and support office teams are key — there are no shortcuts." She was delighted to be recognised as Sales Executive of the Year, but she remains humble, acknowledging the incredible support from her team and peers.

Kerensa treasures countless moments at Metlifecare, from watching residents form new friendships and even new romances to meeting her best friend, Ann Franks, over a shared love of roses. She is particularly proud of winning the 2023 Sales Executive of the Year award, which

she keeps in her office as a reminder of the hard work and dedication that led to this recognition.

Looking ahead, Kerensa is eager to take on new challenges, such as selling in a new development village. But for now, she continues to enjoy her current role, cherishing the people and the vibrant community spirit of Metlifecare.

To anyone considering a career change, Kerensa's advice is straightforward: "If you want something, go for it! Be prepared to put in the hard work, and you will be supported." For those starting in sales, she recommends taking advantage of every available resource, spending time with experienced colleagues, and embracing a love for people and the industry.

Kerensa highlights Metlifecare’s supportive working environment, where career progression is encouraged. She values the "Thrive" program, offering generous discounts at major retailers, and the extensive training programs available, including the Elevate Leadership Program.

“What I love most about Metlifecare is the people," she shares. "I’ve had amazing opportunities to progress within the company, and I love that we help make every day better for our residents, whether it's taking the time to listen, share a smile, or enjoy a good laugh together." As she enters her 25th year of service, Kerensa looks forward to many more years at Metlifecare, a place that feels like home.