From Supervisor to Area Cleaning Manager: Paulina’s career journey at Unify
We believe in supporting our team to grow and succeed. Paulina's story shows what's possible when ambition meets the right support. She started as a Cleaning Supervisor and has developed with us to become an Area Cleaning Manager. Her journey is all about hard work, pushing herself beyond her comfort zone, and the power of a genuinely supportive workplace.
From Supervisor to Area Cleaning Manager
Paulina has been with Unify since our inception in 2020, joining us as a Cleaning Supervisor. Shortly after COVID-19 hit, with increased cleaning requirements to keep workplaces safe, she stepped up to support the team and help manage the extra workload. Her commitment extended beyond her day-to-day responsibilities too, Paulina participated in photo shoots, ensuring that Unify's marketing featured real team members.
Determined to push herself out of her comfort zone, she applied for the Area Cleaning Manager role with encouragement from her manager. Three years on, she now leads cleaning operations across multiple locations, including Manchester Science Park, Citylabs, Trafford, and Didsbury.
"The supportive culture at Unify has been key to the success I've had in my career. I've had great managers that have encouraged me and continue to be there when I need them."
Embracing challenges and learning new skills
Transitioning from a hands-on role to a managerial position meant developing new skills. Paulina had to adapt to spending more time at a computer, which was initially unfamiliar territory. With training and support from her manager and the IT team, she embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.
Another learning curve was handling customer feedback.
"At first, I took things personally, but I've learned to step back and see feedback as a way to improve." she explains.
Through experience, she's honed her communication and organisational skills, both essential for managing multiple sites and teams effectively.
Paulina also plays an important role in supporting her Polish-speaking colleagues by helping with translations. Having moved to the UK from Poland in 2007, first living in Glasgow cleaning the Glasgow Rangers stadium, then Edinburgh, before settling in Manchester in 2014, she understands the challenges of working in a new country and is committed to helping others in similar situations.
Advice for anyone looking to progress
Paulina is passionate about encouraging others to pursue their career goals. Her advice?
"Don't give up. Even if you don't feel confident, just try, there are always people who will support you. Take training opportunities and listen to advice."
She appreciates Unify's commitment to fostering a workplace where everyone's voice is heard and where training and development are actively encouraged.
"Many people have childcare responsibilities and can only work mornings or evenings. Unify provides a great opportunity to get into work, even for a few hours. The business has been very supportive when it comes to family commitments."
A career that makes a difference
Paulina's career progression has made a significant impact on her personal life too. She enjoys more financial stability and, most importantly, wants to set an example for her two daughters, aged 9 and 11.
"I moved to a different country and have built a successful career. I want my girls to see that anything is possible."
One of the things she's most proud of is being there for her team and supporting them the way her managers supported her.
"I've been where my team is now. I had help when I was starting out, and now I try to do the same for my team."
Looking ahead
Reflecting on her journey, Paulina is grateful for the support and opportunities she's found at Unify.
"I'm happy here. I love my team, I know all my customers, and Unify is a great place to work."
Her story demonstrates what we value most at Unify – recognising potential, providing real opportunities to grow, and building a culture where people feel supported to succeed. When you invest properly in your team, everyone benefits.
If you’d like a cleaning provider that puts people first and supports the development of their team, get in touch.
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