DESTINATION RETIREMENT: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS AS THE VOICE OF CALDER CONFERENCES

After two incredible decades of being the warm, welcoming voice of Calder Conferences, our wonderful receptionist, Dianne, is retiring.

For many clients and partners, Dianne has been the very first impression of Calder – always upbeat and always professional, she’s been the friendly voice on the phone and the heart of our front desk for over 20 years.

We asked Dianne to share some reflections on her time here, in her own words.

What is your first memory of Calder?

My first memory is of being very nervous on my first day. I had never worked in an office-based role before, but I must have done OK because I’ve stayed for 20 years. My bum was so numb though that first night! I soon got over my nerves because everyone was so friendly and helpful.

What have you loved about your role?

Feeling part of a team. No matter what was going on outside of work, as soon as I picked the phone up, I was in my switchboard role and always tried my best to sound cheerful and happy. That’s what I got paid to do, and I took pride in it.

What was one of your most memorable days?

There really have been so many. One of my favourites and most memorable is of a Macmillan coffee morning we held in the office. My dad was invited to join us. He had been in hospital quite ill, and it was just the pick-me-up that he needed. Everyone made him feel so welcome, he loved chatting to the team and of course eating the cakes. It really was a good day, plus we raised a lot of money for an excellent cause.

What made you stay with Calder for 20 years?

Well, that’s easy to answer. I have truly enjoyed my time working here. I felt respected and appreciated. I loved the fact that there was always an open door, a listening ear, and so much support and advice.

What three words would you use to describe the Calder culture?

Teamwork makes the Dreamwork! Oops, that’s four, but then again, we always go that bit extra at Calder.

What would you say to someone considering working for Calder?

It’s like Marmite, you either love it or hate it. But you’d only hate it if you didn’t like working in such a close-knit, caring environment. It’s a very special place.

What will you miss the most?

So many things! The banter in the office, the lovely people I speak to on the phone, and how well we are looked after… (though, I won’t miss the uniform, ha!)

A Calder legend

Dianne will be missed by both customers and colleagues, and we all wish her a long and very happy retirement. She has been, for so many years and will continue to be, a big part of the Calder family.

Thank you, Dianne, for everything.