Meet Kimberley Hearns – People Not Products

Our interview series continues with Kimberley Hearns, our Head of Operations, as she talks about her career journey so far, top tips for success and working with the team at Aspen Solutions.

Can you tell us a bit about your career journey and what led you to Aspen Solutions?
Like most folks, my career didn’t follow a straight line. I started out in the print industry back in 2008, initially working in sales before moving into professional services and then project management. During lockdown, I was ready for a new challenge and joined a large CX software provider as a Product Manager. 4 years in I was part of a large round of redundancies, and I found myself looking at new opportunities and was approached by Mhairi Beeby on LinkedIn about a role at Aspen Solutions.
To be honest, I almost didn’t take the meeting. Having worked in the print industry previously, I had some preconceived ideas about Aspen Solutions based on what I thought the business was. However, after sitting down with Mhairi, it quickly became clear that Aspen Solutions was very different from what I had expected. The conversation felt less like a traditional interview and more like two people getting to know each other and exploring whether there was a good fit.
I’m really glad I took that opportunity. The role and the business are far more diverse than I initially realised, and since joining I’ve had the chance to work across projects, professional services and now the wider operations team, helping drive change for both our customers and the business itself.

What does a typical day in your role look like, and what do you enjoy most about it?
There genuinely isn’t a typical day for me. At the moment, I sit across projects, professional services, and then ultimately over operations, so there’s always different challenges.  I like the variety though.

What’s been your most memorable moment or achievement at Aspen Solutions so far?
I was brought in during the first phase of the hotel rollout. Within 3 weeks, Mhairi went on holiday, and I had to hold the fort. That felt like an achievement in itself, but this year has been really busy already. There’s been lot of big projects across Europe, whilst implementing a massive process change within the business, plus I have moved up to Head of Operations, so I’m spinning a lot of plates!

What skills or qualities do you think are essential for success in your role?
Being able to multitask and listen carefully is key. It’s about spotting the gaps and understanding someone’s problem, even when they may not fully know what the issue is themselves. You’re bridging the gap between customers and technical, and I like being able to understand what processes are causing people issues and trying to fix them.

How would you describe the culture at Aspen Solutions, and what makes it a great place to work?Everyone is willing to help, regardless of their role. Since moving to our Cambuslang office, having everyone together in a more open environment has really highlighted how supportive the team is. There’s a genuine sense that people care about what they do, the customers they support, and the people they work alongside.
For me, Aspen feels different because you can see the impact you’re making every day. You’re not just a name on an organisational chart, your ideas are heard, and you can help shape positive change. It’s a place where people work collaboratively, and if something needs done, it gets done. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to build a career in your field?
Maybe this is broader, but for anyone, try things. Try it, see if you like it. Progress isn’t linear, sometimes you might branch off to try something different. Everybody’s so focussed on knowing what the want to do, but I think you need to know what you don’t want to do. Identify the bits you don’t like and focus on the parts that you do.

When you’re not at work, how do you like to unwind and relax?
I like going and throwing myself in a really cold loch. I love being outdoors, and I’m at my happiest on top of a mountain or in a freezing cold loch. I don’t get to do it all that often, most of my time is spent with my wee girl, she’s 3, and she’s bonkers!

Our thanks to Kimberley for a great interview! If we can we help your business with cloud based solutions, cyber security, IT support or print management – please get in touch at hello@aspensolutions.co.uk

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