Challenging norms in the equipment hire industry

The theme for International Women’s Day in 2022 is ‘break the bias’ – something Orange Hire continues to work through as we build a truly people-centred business.

We offer flexible career opportunities

Orange Hire is committed to supporting women to thrive, not just in our workplace, but in their long-term careers. People & Culture Manager Katrina Flannery notes that it was this strong leadership that first drew her to the company.

“I joined Orange Hire about 18 months ago after being attracted by the people-first culture. I love working in a leadership team that has a commitment to creating an inclusive and caring workplace culture that inspires and supports all employees. Our CEO Greg Parfitt is a supportive and passionate leader that understands that our people are at the heart of our success and that they are what make our business great.”

This is echoed by Greg who agrees that Orange Hire’s people are its most important asset, and on International Women’s Day, it’s important to highlight the women in the company.

“I would like to acknowledge the significant contribution that the women in our business make to our culture, customer experience and profit generation,” says Greg.

“Whether they are selling our services, solving customer problems or enabling and supporting other team members, the ladies at Orange Hire certainly hold their own.”

This is reiterated by employees like Mandie Schalkwyk, who notes that Orange Hire’s flexible policies and frequent opportunities for training have enabled her to develop skills that are transferable, no matter where her career takes her.

“Orange Hire has taken a personal interest in the whole team’s career goals by promoting training and personal development, and also by taking a proactive approach to our wellbeing, whilst being patient whilst trying to find the right childcare.” explains Mandie.

Amy Beveridge adds that the inclusive and dynamic work culture has helped open the doors to new opportunities such as the HRIA’s Women in Hire & Access Program.

“Orange Hire supports the Women in Hire and Access Mentoring Program, which is the first of its kind in the hire industry. The program is designed to give women opportunities to develop their leadership skills, build confidence, and pursue a successful career.”

We trust and value our team members

Mandie says that the level of trust and care amongst team members really shines through in everyday work life.

“Our team displays true value for everyone in the team – they listen, they are passionate and are authentic.”

Amy adds that this feeling of trust, security and support in her role helped to ease the anxiety of the past two years of Covid-affected work.

“While navigating our way through a pandemic, working from home and teaching our kids added a significant and relentless strain for many women. Having full support from the leadership team while we juggled it all was comforting,” says Amy.

“Orange Hire took a proactive approach to the team’s wellbeing and offered flexible working options over this period, which really helped reduce stress.”

We offer unique opportunities

Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias often holds women back in their careers. It makes it harder for women to get hired, harder to get promoted, and it negatively impacts their experiences at work.

Projects Manager Chada Zoabi says there is still a long way to go, and events such as International Women’s Day shine a spotlight on the areas that need attention.

“IWD is a reminder to all about how women were perceived and treated in the past, and a celebration of how far we have come as a society in terms of accepting women into educational institutions, the workforce and governments.”

“It is also a reminder that there are still some basics that we need to get right, like pay parity, accessibility to appropriate working conditions, and the recognition of womens’ invaluable contribution to domestic work, childcare and the care of older family members.”

However, Chada remains positive about the future of these important issues.

“Despite this, I maintain that there has never been a better time to be a woman!”

Collectively, we can all help to create a more inclusive environment. Traditionally the hire industry is heavily male-dominated so Orange Hire has made a point of breaking the bias and supporting more women to enter this dynamic industry.

Sandra Potter agrees, noting that Orange Hire is a business with an inclusive culture where there are ample opportunities for growth.

“International Women’s Day is important as it highlights the contribution of women in the workplace and the ongoing need to provide equal opportunities to women – especially in male-dominated occupations and industries. Orange Hire has given me the autonomy to run, grow and improve my role and the team is friendly and supportive.”

Peta Nash is new to Orange Hire but has already noticed the opportunity for career growth and personal development.

“Celebrating International Women’s Day for me means a time for reflection on my achievements and an opportunity to acknowledge the plans for my future. It is a time for empowerment within ourselves: as women working in a non-traditional industry I cannot help but feel like a pioneer.”

Along with a commitment to work-life balance, Peta could see that the industry is growing and needs new blood to keep pace with the rapidly expanding construction sector.

“Here in Queensland we’re experiencing huge demand in the construction industry and along with the upcoming Olympics, this was my opportunity to join a winning team and grow my career along with the company. As I am the only female working onsite it is like I am the big sister in a close-knit family – and that is very encouraging.”

We’re a positive and supportive team

“Working with Orange Hire is like having an extended family – I have a supportive manager and an awesome team,” says Alice Monis.

Nicole Radcliffe agrees, noting that the culture of positivity, care and support makes for an enjoyable workplace.

“I love working within my team at Orange Hire. They are a team that truly cares for each other. Whether it be offering a hand if they see you are struggling, a joke if you’re down, giving support when things don’t quite go to plan or celebrating a success, I know they will be there.”

Katrina Whyman adds that the positivity across the business makes for an enjoyable workplace.

“I love working at Orange Hire because of the people. My team in particular are always there to support each other, help out when someone is in need generally and when absent or busy. In general, the company has a positive vibe and makes it an enjoyable place to be whether it be working or socialising.”

Join us in breaking the bias this International Women’s Day.