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Building a Career with Balance and Growth
Kirsten’s career journey at STEP is a powerful example of how good employment can create space for growth, confidence and meaningful work—without compromising on life outside the office.
Looking for a change of pace and greater work-life balance, Kirsten joined STEP as a part-time receptionist at the Stirling Business Centre. It was a role that offered flexibility, but quickly grew into something much more. Kirsten was soon building strong relationships with tenants, getting to know the buildings and immersing herself in STEP’s values and community something which laid the groundwork for her next chapter.
As part of her role, Kirsten volunteered to cover Maternity Leave at Stirling Enterprise Park—and it was there that something clicked.
She loved the faster pace, the busier site and the opportunity to engage with a broader range of businesses. It wasn’t long before she transferred into a front-of-house role at Stirling Enterprise Park, bringing her knowledge and enthusiasm with her. Not long after her move, a member of the Property Team announced their retirement—and Kirsten knew instantly that this was the opportunity she had been waiting for. She had developed a real passion for the property side of the business and wanted to take the next step.
Coming from a background in office administration and events management, property was never a career path Kirsten had considered. But as she became more immersed in the role, she realised not only how much she enjoyed it, but how naturally her skills transferred. What surprised her most, however, was a genuine passion for Health and Safety—something she hadn’t previously seen as an area of interest.
Recognising this emerging strength, STEP leaned into it. When a change took place in the HR team, which had previously managed Health and Safety, Kirsten—with the support of her team and line manager—suggested that the responsibility would be better aligned within the Property Department. Following a review, it was agreed and Kirsten officially took on the role of Health and Safety Coordinator, with full access to training, external consultancy support and guidance from STEP’s Leadership Team.
Today, Kirsten leads on Health and Safety across all STEP sites. She chairs the Health and Safety Committee, works closely with an external specialist consultant and reports directly to the Chief Executive. As STEP continued to evolve, so too did Kirsten’s role. She now also manages two members of staff directly and a wider team of ten indirectly, reporting to the Director of Property and Operations.
“Working for STEP has been a fantastic experience and I’ve had lots of opportunities in the time I’ve been here,” Kirsten explains. “I’ve got a great work-life balance which has been encouraged and supported by STEP.”
Kirsten’s journey reflects the core of our One STEP People Strategy—empowering individuals to grow their careers in a way that suits their goals, personal lives, and potential. Whether starting in a part-time post or stepping into a new direction, every member of the STEP team is supported to thrive.
👉 Inspired by Kirsten’s story? Start your own journey with us: STEP Careers
