As its name suggests, the support team provide support and services to all the departments and employees at the Vertech Group.
Two of our newest members, Kate (HSEQ) and Owen (Marketing) have quickly become valued additions to the team, meshing well with the more established members. Having graduated from Curtin University in the last five years, they constantly seek to expand their skill sets and grow as professionals.
Both Kate & Owen are very approachable and are always happy to chat with any staff member who needs assistance.
To get to know them better, Vertech conducted a short interview.
Kate Bell – HSEQ Advisor
Tell us a little about yourself and what you do at Vertech Group.
I graduated from Curtin University in mid-2016 and am currently employed as Vertech’s HSEQ Advisor. I’m still quite new but have gradually been getting more responsibilities. So far, I’ve been a part of inducting new employees, the document review process, monthly KPI summaries, issuing HSE management plans & other supporting documentation for client tenders and supporting supervisors/managers through the injury management process.
Is this your first job utilising your degree? If not, what experience did you have before coming to Vertech?
This is my second job using my degree. I was employed 2018 as a Safety Support Officer for SGS in a Metallurgy test-work laboratory. About 18 months in, I also took on quality responsibilities after another employee left the company.
You went to Curtin University. What is one skill you learned during your studies that has been vital as a young professional?
The ability to work well under the pressure of several looming (and sometimes avoided until last minute) deadlines & get it done.
Who is your favourite to be AFL premier in 2020?
Port Adelaide, but they’re known to choke.
What television show are you binge-watching right now?
Selling Sunset. I’m not proud of it, but I love a bit of mind-numbing American reality TV drama.
Who are you listening to on Spotify right now?
The new Glass Animals album.
Owen Johnstone – Graduate Marketing Officer
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do at Vertech Group
I am the Graduate Marketing Officer at Vertech Group. My primary role is to develop the messaging, content and branding material for the group in the Asia Pacific region. I have a Bachelor Honours Degree in Marketing & Public Relations, which I finished towards the end of 2019, transitioning immediately into my current role.
Is this your first job utilising your degree? If not, what experience did you have before coming to Vertech?
While this is my first full-time role, during my studies, I worked part-time for the WAFL club, Peel Thunder, as well as a freelance content writer for several websites.
What is the most interesting or satisfying thing you have worked on at Vertech?
One of the first projects I was given was organising our stand at the Australasian Oil & Gas Expo (AOG). Initially, I had no idea where to start, but when the day of the convention arrived, I saw how the stand and displays had turned out, making it all worth it. It was a big learning experience for me, but I took this role to be challenged, and this was just the project I needed.
In a world where Vertech Group never existed, what is your dream company/organisation for which to work?
Something sports-based, working for an international sports organisation like the NBA or the Olympic Committee, would be exciting and let you travel to some fantastic places.
Who is your favourite to be AFL premiers in 2020?
The Eagles in a WA grand final would be the ideal scenario, but probably Richmond.
What television or movies are you binge-watching on right now?
Antiques Roadshow, I must have watched about 100 episodes in the last three months, so if any techs have anything they want value, bring it in, and I’ll look at it.
Who are you listening to on Spotify right now?
Typically, it’s just something in the easy listening section, but if I am in the gym, it’s Vengaboys every day.
