From Army chef to Procurement Ledger Assistant: Nicky’s inspiring career journey
Meet Nicola ‘Nicky’ White, a dedicated Procurement Ledger Assistant at Orchard Care Homes. Nicky first joined Orchard in December 2020, and since then, she's been making an impact in ways she never expected. We chatted to her about her professional journey and learnt how rewarding careers, that truly make a difference often come from the most surprising paths.
Her professional journey to where she is now was far from linear. Nicky shared, “I left school with very few qualifications, but I knew I wanted to join the Army. At first, I lacked the confidence, but one day I walked past the Army Careers Office and decided to just walk in. A few months later, I was enlisted in the Women’s Royal Army Corps. I earned my City & Guilds in Catering at Aldershot and was then posted to a training depot for the Guards Regiments, where we prepared three meals a day for hundreds of trainees.”
During her time as a chef in the Army in the early 80s, Nicky developed invaluable skills like discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. After starting a family, she transitioned into civilian life, working in various catering roles in hospitals, schools, and care homes. Nicky went on to run her own business for 10 years before deciding to take a bold leap, embarking on an adventure across France and Spain, before eventually settling back home in North Yorkshire.
Nicky says she never imagined herself in an office setting, but after a change in career direction, she found herself in a role that felt right. Her experience as a Commercial Account Manager in the oil industry was her entry into the office environment. “I never imagined myself working in an office, but here I am, and I’m loving it,” she shares.
Since joining us in December 2020, Nicky has brought her wealth of experience and attention to detail to her role of Procurement Ledger Assistant. Day-to-day, she’s involved in reviewing orders, approving invoices, and collaborating with suppliers and our wonderful homes to make sure resources are used efficiently. Nicky works behind the scenes to ensure Orchard is getting the best value without compromising on quality. Her role may be in the background, but her work is at the heart of everything that makes Orchard run smoothly - and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Her favourite thing about working at Orchard is collaborating with her colleagues. She admits that there are sides to procurement that can be tough. “The work is challenging, but that’s what I love about it,” she says.
Nicky says she is inspired by the incredible work happening within our homes. “Our colleagues are phenomenal,” she says. “I am in awe of them. It’s amazing to see the incredible work that goes into running the homes and taking such good care of the residents.” Nicky says she feels deeply connected to Orchard’s mission and takes great pride in contributing to a team that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.
We asked her what she wishes people knew about her role, and Nicky’s answer is simple: “How much I care.” She’s deeply invested in her work and strives to ensure that everything she does is for the greater good of the people who live and work in our homes. For Nicky, it’s not just about the numbers - it’s about making sure the best outcomes are achieved for everyone involved.
If you’re looking for advice on how to start in a field similar to hers, Nicky has plenty to offer. “Get yourself to college or the services and get qualifications. Learn as much as you can from a wide variety of experiences and people. Take as many opportunities as come your way. Be the best you can,” she advises.
Her journey is proof that success isn’t about following a linear path, but about being open to learning, adapting, and seizing the opportunities that come your way.
Thanks for sharing your inspiring story with us Nicky!
Whether you’re considering a new, rewarding career in care or you’re looking for the next step in your current career, head to our careers page and see all our latest job opportunities!
