…Wendy Kalra
Ever wondered what people do at work? Or if you are a Park Manager, what other Park Manager’s days look like? Us too. We asked Marina View Manager, Wendy Kalra, to give us a glimpse into her day-to-day life at the park.
What does an average day in your life as a park manager look like?
My average day starts with me checking and responding to emails, if there are any. I plan my week between Marina View and Kirkstead Bridge Park depending on requirements, for example a new home being delivered, resident’s issues, contractors visiting, home cleaning etc.
What’s the first thing you do upon starting your workday?
Normally I walk around the park here and engage with residents where possible. I give the roads a sweep then tend the planters and boat at the entrance. I believe that having colourful flowers on the park always makes it look welcoming and homely.
What rituals set you up for success?
I think the secret to doing this job efficiently is to deal with things as they occur. A niggle can become a problem if it’s left to fester for a few days. It doesn’t take that long to listen to someone and I will always contact head office and update the residents when I get a response. Alternatively, I will point them in the right direction for whatever it is they need.
What’s the most rewarding part of your day?
Whilst at Kirkstead doing something quite mundane, I might find someone driving by and end up doing a sales appointment as well as showing them around the park or a home. I love this bit of my job as I really enjoy getting to know people and trying to help them make decisions, as I too have downsized from a 4/5 bedroom house to a park home, and therefore feel the advice I give them is relatable, as they know I have been through the process and have come out happy and smiling on the other side.
I think the most rewarding part of this job is going home knowing that I have made a difference, comforted someone, made someone smile or even just offered them some company for a few minutes. I reap the rewards from the residents here as they occasionally offer to help out around the park or even donate plants!
What was your journey like to becoming a park manager?
I used to be a hotel manager for many years. I have assisted with commissioning, opening, managing new luxury hotels and timeshare lodges and have trained staff aswell. I also worked for the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace, looked after 598 domestic staff at the Royal Free Hospital in London and taught at a hotel school in Switzerland. Prior to this role, I worked at Kendal College in Student Services where I was front of house working on reception and organising Open Days and Awards.
I came to Marina View looking at homes and half-jokingly asked the manager if she fancied a work share. She told me she was retiring in December so I applied for the role and started work that February.
What are some exciting projects you’re working on this month?
This month we had a visit from Group Commander Matt Peterson who is the Station Commander for RAF Coningsby. He had requested to come and meet me and the residents to talk about the impact of the flying, particularly the night flying and display pilots.
He met some residents at the entrance then walked up the park to speak to others. He answered a lot of their questions. It was a very hot day, and we had a thundery shower, but overall it was an extremely positive experience and everyone had a great day.
I also showed him my RAF flag so when he was up in the Hurricane that morning, he gave me a wing wave.
We’d love to hear more about your experiences of working on a Tingdene Residential Park, Holiday Park or Marina!
If you’d like to share your stories please email teamcommunications@tingdene.net and we will get in touch.
