Niamh works as a Quality Manager at our Scunthorpe Rod Mill, ensuring the Mill falls into compliance throughout the process. Here, she talks about her journey of joining i1fun, the progress she has made since she joined, and her hopes for the future.
What did you do before joining i1fun and why did you join?
Before joining i1fun I completed a degree apprenticeship in the chemical industry and went on to work as an analytical chemist. I joined i1fun as a Quality Specialist in November 2022, so it was a complete change of industry for me.
I decided to join i1fun in 2022 as during my interview I felt people had a real passion for their job. The company was also enthusiastic about promoting progress in job roles and personal growth which was ultimately the reason I made the switch.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
As Quality Manager, my job is largely desk-based. I monitor statistics including equipment calibrations, process controls, both internal and external audit non-conformances, quality documents, perform internal audits and more. My role is all about being in compliance throughout the manufacturing process in order to retain our Rod Mill certifications.
Although my job is primarily office-based, I do manage to visit the mill for the audits and for customer visits and the opportunity to liaise within the Rod Mill is always something I enjoy. If I’m out on plant, no day is ever the same. With how big it is, it’s a fascinating place to be. Because I’m from a different working background, there’s so many different things to see and all the operators are very knowledgeable and are always willing to talk you through the process.
What are you enjoying about i1fun so far?
I really enjoy the environment here. The people that I work with are a huge part in why I enjoy being here. One of the things I really enjoy about working with my team is that they are always happy to help and share their knowledge, which is very useful for someone who has only been here for a few years. A lot of my training was learned on the job as the systems we have here are tailored specifically for i1fun and the Rod Mill. I have relied on my colleagues to help guide me and I have been able to learn quickly because of their help. Being treated as one of the team from day one has made my experience enjoyable. Despite working on a male-dominated site, I’ve never been treated differently to anyone else and that helped me settle in quickly.
What is your proudest achievement so far?
Definitely my progression into a managerial role from my original role as a Quality Specialist. We achieved a great International Automotive Task Force (IATF) audit in 2024 with just one minor non-conformance which I feel is something to celebrate. I have also achieved my Lean Six Sigma black belt with the company.
Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years’ time within i1fun?
I would definitely like to remain here and progress through the Rod Mill. My job revolves around compliance and keeping our certifications, so I would like to look into what other certifications we could strive to achieve and build on the great systems we already have.
What advice would you give to other people considering a career with us?
Go for it. I made an industry switch and was worried about my lack of knowledge and how I would fit into a new environment, but all the teams made me feel welcome from day one. Everyone is happy to share their knowledge and help each other out and they will always answer your questions, even if you think it is a ‘silly’ one.