As International Women's Day approaches this Saturday, Burson Auto Parts remains committed to seeing the women in our team grow and overcome barriers.

This year’s theme is Accelerate Action, which emphasises the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality, including breaking down barriers and biases that women face in their personal and professional lives.

Burson continues to advance the women in our business by supporting their career growth and sharing their stories for all to see. Our stories for this year’s International Women’s Day come from:

• Kristie Teske: Store Manager – Burson Auto Parts Tamworth (NSW)
• Nikita Walters: Store Manager – Burson Auto Parts Moorooka (QLD)
• Sharn Griffiths: Equipment Specialist SA/NT – Burson Auto Parts
• Kylie Denman: Queensland Branch Manager – Precision Automotive Equipment
• Alicia Gil: National Equipment Sales Support – Precision Automotive Equipment

For Tamworth Store Manager Kristie Teske, who manages one of the largest stores in NSW, working at Burson is the latest step of a 9-year journey in the spare parts industry.

“I have been with Burson for 5 years, starting as an automotive parts interpreter (API) and then stepping into a manager role just over one year ago,” Kristie recounted.

“I love being involved in the automotive industry, especially with Burson. I’d encourage any woman to have a go, especially if they’re interested.”

Moorooka Store Manager Nikita Walters also had some advice to give.

“Be yourself, be keen to learn new things and don’t let anything hold you back!”

Having worked across retail automotive outlets during her early career, Nikita made the decision to move into trade, joining Burson in 2015. The past 10 years have proven to be both the most interesting and challenging for Nikita, having progressed from API to Store Manager and moving interstate from WA to QLD. 

“There are always lots of plates to juggle as a manager. However, it’s very rewarding making a difference in people’s lives and businesses. That is what motivates me to come to work each day.”

SA/NT Equipment Specialist Sharn Griffiths, who previously worked in customer service, API and account management and sales, had the same feeling.

“Seeing a customer get a return on investment on a piece of Capital Equipment they have purchased definitely gives you the feel goods.”

As for what drove her passion, Sharn had this to say.

“I'm always looking for the next challenge. The industry has a lot of opportunity for anyone at any level.”

Starting off as a delivery driver, Precision’s Kylie Denman rose through the ranks, being promoted to an administrator, then to Queensland Branch 2IC and finally to her current role as Queensland Branch Manager.

“Despite the challenges, there is always someone happy and willing to help you out. It’s great to work with personalities that always make me smile and see other women hitting their goals,” said Kylie.

For women looking to start or make the switch to a career in the automotive industry, National Equipment Sales Support Alicia Gil imparted the following message.

“Step out of your comfort zone and take that leap of faith!”

From the office to the storefront to the workshop, women play an invaluable role in Burson Auto Parts’ business operations. Together, let’s Accelerate Action to speed up the progress of gender equality worldwide.

Keep up to date with the latest news from Burson by following us at @bursonautoparts on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.