Age is just a number for sales star, Jill, 74
Most people in their 70s aren’t thinking about making a career change or even working at all, but Jill Godbold at our centre has taken the plunge and switched to sales at the age of 74!
Jill has worked at leisure centres since 2013, first at Swallows in Sittingbourne, before transferring to our centre in 2019. Prior to this, she had actually retired from work, But retirement did not suit Jill, which led first to her taking a position as a receptionist at Swallows, then onto Maidstone, working in the same role. Jill loved working on the reception desk and had little desire to change career path. But Donna Kavanagh, Deputy Contract Manager for Maidstone Leisure Trust, which operates the centre in partnership with Serco Leisure, had other ideas.
“I’ve always thought Jill would be a great salesperson. I always tell our sales team ‘If you love your centre, you can sell your centre!’ And Jill most definitely loves Maidstone Leisure Centre!”, said Donna.
“I mentioned to her on a couple of occasions last year my idea of her switching to sales, but she always replied, ‘you’ve got to be kidding!’. She loved working on the reception desk, and she was brilliant at it, but the warm welcome she gave every visitor and the passion she has for this place is something that transfers so well to a sales’ role.”
As Donna says, there are few people who love their place of work as much as Jill Godbold!
“We had a lot of improvement works carried out in 2024, and the place looks amazing. The new equipment we’ve got in the gym is incredible. I use the gym myself, which makes it very easy to sell it to potential customers, when I take them on a tour of the centre”, said Jill.
“I had no intention of leaving the reception desk, and trying something new, but Donna was very convincing and I’m enjoying the new challenge. It’s great to see that employers like the Maidstone Leisure Trust and Serco Leisure value employees on what they contribute to the workplace and not on something unimportant like their age!”
Are you inspired by Jill's story? Come see what makes Maidstone Leisure Centre so special.
Whether you're looking to join a vibrant community or take the next step in your fitness journey, there’s something here for everyone—at every age. Visit us today or contact us to find out more.