I was employed by Rosie at DHL in October 1997 as a Field Sales Executive.   I previously worked for a hairdressing company as a Sales Executive.  I was exposed to the corporate environment for the first time when I joined DHL.  I had no formal training, no computer knowledge and I had never entered a board room until that time.

For three years, Rosie was my manager, but more so my mentor.

Whether I watched her conduct a meeting, handle irate customers, or read her correspondence to customers, during my first year working for Rosie I learnt more than I could in any business school.

She expected a lot from her staff but also gave a lot.  We worked long hours and achieved beyond expectation.  She never expected us to do anything she herself was not prepared to do.  There was a healthy competitiveness amongst the staff which pushed us to achieve our targets and somehow we cemented relationships which turned into friendships that remain to this day.

As much as Rosie would support and praise good work, she did not tolerate inferior work standards and staff who were lazy.  Work had to be done right, on time and targets had to be achieved.

The time came that I raised my dreams and expectations with Rosie to move into a more senior role within DHL.  Once again Rosie gave me all the support I needed, she sent me on the necessary training programs, coached me and supported me until such time that I was appointed as the National Sales Trainer for DHL.

I still look back at the time that I reported to Rosie with fondness, she has a great sense of humor which is needed when the going gets tough.  I will always be grateful to her for what she taught me.