Having worked with us in various capacities over the last 15 years, there’s not much Robert Grenda doesn’t know about TWO Services.
He’s worked his way up from part-time cleaner to Sales Executive, and his progression is testament to the hard work and dedication that he has displayed for us time and time again.
We spoke to Robert to better understand his career journey to date, and what he enjoys the most about being a part of the TWO team.
Tell us about your journey with TWO Services so far, Robert.
I am originally from Poland. I finished high school in my home country, then decided to work as a waiter in Italy for four months, during their high season. It was an interesting experience, but I felt like the culture in Italy was very much focused on work, with no time for a private life – so I moved to the UK searching for a better work/life balance.
I got a job as a waiter in a Polish restaurant, and I told my mother I’d only stay for three months. But 15 years later, I’m still here – and a lot of that is down to TWO!
I started work at TWO back in 2008, as a driver and a part-time cleaner. Most of my time in this job was spent on carpet cleans and floor cleans, but I had the chance to try out all aspects.
At the same time, I also held down a role as a Room Attendant, and later Supervisor, at a hostel. I was busy, and I enjoyed the variety of my work, but I knew I needed a new challenge at some point.
I didn’t feel like I was ready for the next step, but my former Operations Manager pushed me to think about my progression. When the company’s Area Supervisor resigned, I was offered the role by Margarita, and I went for it. About six years ago, I was promoted to Operations Manager, and last year, in 2022, Barry and Oliver asked if I would like to move over to the sales department. I have since gone on to become the company’s Sales Executive, meaning I am now mostly involved with visiting potential customers at their sites and providing them with quotes for their projects.
What do you enjoy the most about your latest role with us?
I like spending time in my car (and singing along to my playlist!) in between appointments, so the amount of driving that I have to do isn’t a problem for me.
I travel across the whole of the UK to meet with prospects, assess their cleaning requirements, and then delivering estimates for the works that need to be completed. A lot of these meetings are carried out in person, but I’ll take a lot of phone calls during the day, too. I’m here whenever and however my customers need me.
I do still manage some daily cleans for regular customers. Very occasionally, if a member of staff is on holiday or off sick, I will step in and help out with the clean itself. I’m not afraid to clean and I will always provide cover if I need to.
I feel like the directors trust me in my newest role, and I’m very happy to have the opportunity to progress my career with TWO in this way. I have a good knowledge of our business and our clients, and I like to think I’m a likeable person, so all these things ensure I get on well with our prospects and can help them find the best solution, regardless of the challenges they are facing.
It hasn’t all been easy. When I started with the quotes, Barry was the person who came back to me with every single mistake. Now, however, I understand that without his attention and feedback, I wouldn’t be in the strong position I’m in now.
It’s true when people say that working for TWO is like being part of one big family – this is something I have experienced over the years. It’s the community that makes working for TWO so enjoyable and so comfortable. Everyone within the business is very helpful, which I appreciate.
What’s your plan for the future?
I would like to progress further through the company, definitely. It may be a long process, but I am open to more advancement. I want to bring more to the business.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Mostly, I like reading and learning to play the drums. At the weekends you’ll usually find me playing Sunday League football. If I really want to relax, I will go for a walk in the forest; nature is very calming for me.