Employee Spotlight: Corey Cooper
Meet one of the amazing members of the HIVED team, Corey Cooper! After originally starting as Warehouse Supervisor, Corey has found a real passion building out our people operations function, all while pursuing a CIPD Level 5 qualification (and singing professionally on the side!). Learn more about Corey and his HIVED journey in his own words below.
To get started, what do you do at HIVED and how long have you been here?
I joined in December 2022, so just over seven months ago, and I am People Operations Manager. That means I work directly with our drivers and across the people and HR function!
How did you get started at HIVED?
I actually first joined HIVED as Warehouse Supervisor, due to my prior experience working at Gorillas as a Warehouse Manager. I was intrigued by the opportunity because my initial thought was that this was a new industry for me, but had a lot of similarities to other jobs I have had. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to pursue my passion for people and culture and move into people operations!
That’s a big jump, and congrats! How have you navigated that transition into people and HR?
I am currently working through a CIPD (Chartered Institute of Professional Development) Level 5 qualification. This is an associate diploma for HR and people professionals who want to further develop their skill set. It is roughly equivalent to an undergraduate degree. This would make my second degree! Some may say I am insane...I may agree! So far it is opening my eyes to a world in which we can do more, see more, and be better for people. It’s not easy, but the support I get from the course provider, as well as the people around me at work, is second to none, and just makes me want to work harder!
On that note, what is an especially challenging aspect of your role?
Working in People Ops/HR is something I have always wanted to do, but it doesn’t come without challenges. You have to be resourceful and be proactive with finding solutions, as you are essentially responsible for all aspects of someone's employment. I have a real duty of care to employees at HIVED — I have to get it right, it’s what people deserve.
What does your life outside of HIVED look like?
I am a singer! I perform at weddings, christenings, corporate events, and festivals throughout the year, every year! You can learn more about my music here.
Can you give us an idea of what a typical day at HIVED looks like?
I absolutely cannot, and I love that it is that way! But I love the fact that we are all always learning and finding new ways to be the best. Not a single person has an ego and we work tirelessly, together.
What were you up to before HIVED? Any unusual or interesting jobs?
Before HIVED I worked for another start-up, Gorillas, but many moons ago I worked at Starbucks in Birmingham, just outside my hometown of Wolverhampton. It was so much fun. I made coffee for many famous faces, including Alicia Keys.
Last question - what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Not a piece of advice, but a quote I live by and will always say to others: “Remember…your track record for making it through the bad days is perfect.”
Curious to learn more about life at HIVED? Find out about opportunities to join our team at https://www.hived.space/careers.
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