Q&A with Paulette Blakey

Q&A with Paulette Blakey: New Committee Member of the Leaders of the Future Community

Paulette Blakey, Category Manager at Exertis Supplies, brings over 20 years of experience in the Business Supplies channel, having held various roles with companies such as Staples UK, Banner, and Floortex. With her extensive background and passion for people development, Paulette shares her insights as she steps into her new role as a committee member for the Leaders of the Future community.

What’s one thing you hope to contribute to the Leaders of the Future community?

Adaptability. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed significant changes in the businesses I’ve worked for, and I’ve learned not to fear it. Adapting to change can be difficult, frustrating, and even uncomfortable at times, but it’s also an incredible opportunity for growth. I love the challenge that change brings – it pushes you to grow, develop, and continuously learn. This is the mindset I hope to contribute to the Leaders of the Future community, encouraging others to embrace change as a positive force for progress.

What inspired you to join the Leaders of the Future community?

I was drawn to the Leaders of the Future community by its mission: ‘Leading, Guiding, Connecting, Shaping.’

• Leading: I am passionate about everything I do, and I take pride in using this passion as a driving force to inspire others. I strive to help those I interact with recognise the impact they can have on their work.
• Guiding: I take great pleasure in investing in people – sharing my experiences, offering solutions, and supporting them on their personal journeys.
• Connecting: I build strong relationships across the business and with suppliers. I now want to extend this connection across the industry, focusing on sharing best practices, learning from one another, and networking with new people. Within the Exertis Group, I’m involved in multiple Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that support Diversity & Inclusion, such as Enable (focused on disabilities and neurodiversity) and Midlife Matters (supporting women through menopause).
• Shaping: I enjoy mentoring and sharing my knowledge, and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch others grow and develop. Additionally, I see this as an opportunity to shape the future of our industry. I’ve had incredible mentors throughout my career, and now I want to build my own confidence and leadership skills, while inspiring others.

What’s one leadership skill you’re focusing on developing right now?

I’m focusing on leading by example, ensuring that in every aspect of my role, I’m bringing others along on the journey. Whether it’s decision-making, collaboration, or day-to-day tasks, I believe that leadership is a constant process of development – guiding, connecting, and shaping the team. By modelling the values I expect from others, I aim to inspire growth and create a shared vision for success.

Who is a leader you admire, and what’s one lesson you’ve learned from them?

I’ve had the privilege of being surrounded by inspiring individuals throughout my life. However, one of the most influential leaders of our time, for me, was Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her determination, unwavering commitment, and the sacrifices she made in her lifetime are powerful lessons in leadership. Her selfless service to the throne, her country, and the Commonwealth is a legacy that will endure. I feel fortunate to have lived through her reign – The Elizabethan Age. Her dedication and strength continue to be a profound source of inspiration.

What’s your proudest accomplishment so far in your leadership journey?

From a personal perspective, I’m proud to have raised two boys while successfully advancing my career. I’ve demonstrated to them that with determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to, and I’ve shared valuable life skills along the way.
Professionally, I’ve led and driven numerous projects, collaborating across multiple departments and even countries. While I haven’t always managed a formal team, I’ve effectively managed the expectations of a broader team, achieving year-on-year growth. These experiences have shaped my leadership journey and reinforced my belief in the importance of collaboration and resilience.

What’s a leadership book, podcast, or resource that has influenced you the most?

I’m currently reading Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Dr. Julie Smith. It’s packed with insights from a therapist’s toolkit, offering valuable advice for optimising mental health. The book provides expert coping techniques for staying resilient, regardless of what life throws your way. Topics such as managing anxiety, dealing with criticism, finding motivation, and building self-confidence are covered in a real, authentic, and relatable way. I highly recommend it.

In your opinion, what’s the most important quality of a great leader?

There are many qualities that contribute to making a great leader, but I believe self-awareness is one of the most essential. A leader who embodies self-awareness, alongside traits like decisiveness, resilience, empathy, and trustworthiness, is better equipped to inspire their team, navigate challenges, and create an environment where everyone can thrive. It’s crucial to be conscious of your own strengths, weaknesses, and impact on others to lead effectively.

How do you like to unwind and recharge after a long day?

To unwind, I love cooking and listening to music. I also enjoy binge-watching TV series like Grey’s Anatomy or Suits or rewatching my all-time favourite movie, Top Gun. Walking helps clear my mind, and spending time at the beach is my favourite way to recharge – it’s a place that brings me peace. I’m also a big fan of puzzles and getting lost in a gripping book that allows me to escape into another world. Above all, spending quality time with my children, family, and friends is essential for me. All these activities not only help me recharge but also bring me joy.