As a family run business of over 15 years, we pride ourselves on our personable approach, so we feel it’s only right for us to put a face to the name(s) behind Starkey Electrical. First up is one of Starkey Electrical’s founders and directors, Lisa Starkey.

Lisa’s background in recruitment, training and human resources, combined with husband Stuart’s years of experience in the electrical industry, made them the perfect team to set up Starkey Electrical in 2009.

Focused on maintaining its people-first approach while continuing to grow and expand the business, Lisa shared more about how Starkey Electrical began, her role within the business, how it has developed and plans for the future.

How did Starkey Electrical begin?

In 2008, our lives changed completely following the birth of our first child. It made us reevaluate what we wanted out of life and nine months later, Starkey Electrical was born!

Stuart had worked in the industry for many years and we decided to work together, reaching out locally for mostly domestic and commercial work.

Now, 15 years later we are a national company and cover industrial work as well, together with EV and solar.

What is your role within the business and how has it developed over the years?

My main duties are on the HR and recruitment side of the business, including interviewing and looking after the needs of our existing employees.

I check in with the team to ensure that I understand what their priorities are for the day, talk through any challenges they may be facing and come up with solutions together.

Although I am no longer involved in the day-to-day running of the business, I trust my team to update me daily and keep me aware of all activity within the business.

What are the best and most challenging things about running a business?

There are many challenges when running your own business, some that you wouldn’t necessarily expect. Sometimes it’s challenging working with your spouse while being married with children too!

It’s incredibly rewarding winning a piece of new business. I still do a little dance when I pick up a new client – that will never change.

I also find it heartwarming whenever my staff do well or when they accomplish a project that was particularly challenging for them.

What are you most proud of after 15 years of Starkey Electrical? 

I am proud of all we have achieved over the last 15 years.

I value the relationships we have built up with clients over the years which have enabled us to grow and develop. A lot of our repeat business comes from the good relationships we have with our clients.

I have always championed first class customer service. I love speaking to and meeting with our clients, as well as going the extra mile for them.

I am also proud of the second business we were able to set up (Stark EV), and the fact that we are now working nationally and internationally. Stuart is currently working in New York!

What’s next for Starkey Electrical?

We aim to continue our growth, continuing to expand nationally as we have done over the last few years.

We would like to develop our solar arm and grow the EV side of the business which is still growing steadily.

The recent recruitment of a PA to the MD and a site services manager will enable Stuart and I to focus more on the business development side of the business.

We keep the spark alive by trying to encourage and inspire our team. Whether that is through offering training for professional growth or supporting a personal challenge.

I genuinely believe that we are only as good as our last job and therefore, it is vital for our team to be happy. They are the lifeblood of our business.

How do you make sure you and your team maintain a healthy work/life balance?

I’m lucky, I work part time. I make time for all of the other hobbies as I can’t pour from an empty cup.

Juggling three children and two businesses is very difficult. However Stuart and I have put a lot of time and effort into making the businesses work, while also recognising that we need to switch off at home!

Our team enjoys flexible working where the business allows and I know this is very much appreciated.

I try really hard to treat my staff as I would like to be treated. I always try to create a good work/ life balance for my employees so that they can still attend sports days, assemblies or any family time that they need. This, I believe, encourages a sense of family values.

What’s your favourite thing to do to unwind after a week at work?

Depends on the time of year!

We love rugby so I’d say watching England in a stadium, with some hospitality or VIP ideally!

If it’s just a regular weekend then I am a real brunch head! I love a good brunch, followed by a roast, a few drinks, dog walks or a run, and seeing family.

I love watching any of my favourite movies or maybe re-watching the Eras tour? But that takes up to three hours!