Getting to know Jarah Weststeijn

Our meet the team blog series highlights the amazing people behind Xalient. This week we met with one of our HR Officers, Jarah, to learn a little more about her and her role at Xalient.

To kick things off, could you tell us about your career background and current role at Xalient? 

I started working in the Hospitality industry when I was a teenager. I studied hospitality management and worked in hotels for several years before moving to the UK. When I was approached by a recruiter about an HR position four years ago, I didn’t know what to expect. However, I am thrilled I made the jump. 

I started at Xalient on a temporary contract to cover paternity leave, and luckily they could offer me a permanent role as an HR officer. My primary responsibilities are improving our companies’ policies and procedures and ensuring we remain compliant. I also really enjoy working on projects like our Culture and Inclusion Program, the Green Team and being on the CSR committee.

What is it that attracted you to Xalient? 

What attracted me to Xalient was the culture and the people. It was really important for me to work for a company that values its employees, especially as someone working in HR.  

What’s the first thing you do when you start your working day?

It’s pretty much a shower, breakfast, and out the door. I do enjoy listening to a podcast on the way to work.  

What do you like most about your job?

My head is always full of ideas. I like that at Xalient, I get the opportunity to explore new ways of working and improving the workplace. 

What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this?

I would start a doggy daycare and be surrounded by dogs all day. Or, more realistically, I would probably work in a hotel or do something in events. 

In the past 12 months, have you started or stopped any routines or habits to change your life?

Like many others, I can spend hours mindlessly scrolling through social media. So, I try to take regular breaks by deleting the apps for a few weeks or months. That way, I can be more present and focus on doing things I actually enjoy. 

Who/what inspires you (work, personal or historical)?

My parents always encouraged me to find a job I love and not focus on money or status. It took a few tries, but I think I’m doing pretty well.

What’s a fun fact about you many people might not know?

A picture of me was once displayed in a museum as part of an art exhibition.