After building up a successful design business, Danielle Croce was involved in the management buyout of Intasite. The firm provides digital tools for the healthy and safety industry, including online inductions, visitor management, and inspection and compliance software.
What was your first job (and what did it pay)? My first job was a Saturday job as an assistant in a sports shop – for the grand total of £2.80 an hour!
What is the best advice or support you've been given in business? The most valuable advice I've received (or learnt!) in business is to thoroughly understand the intricacies of setting up and structuring your business correctly from the outset. Always think ahead and consider the "what if" scenarios, be transparent and make sure everyone is aligned so you can navigate obstacles and ensure the long-term success and resilience of your business.
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What are the main changes that you've seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you're facing? As a tech business, we've encountered recruitment challenges stemming from a shortage of developers. Simultaneously, while serving clients operating in high-hazard environments within the heavy industry sector, we've seen a significant upswing in renewable energy. Nevertheless, we’ve also witnessed some chemical facilities have had to close operations in response to elevated gas prices.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work? The pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way we work. It accelerated the need for our solution, particularly in the realm of visitor inductions. With on-site in-person inductions becoming unfeasible, there was a pressing demand for a digital solution to safeguard health and safety. Additionally, internally, our organisation has undergone a transformative shift towards a more flexible work environment. Embracing hybrid working models has contributed to higher employee satisfaction and well-being.
Who is your role model in business? My grandma was a business owner, and she and my grandfather owned a 'wet fish shop' in Hartlepool, essentially a fishmonger. She was an inspiration to me and provided the initial financial support to kickstart my journey.
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What would your dream job be? While I'm content with what I do now, I did aspire to become a firefighter at one point. I even applied and got through the initial stages, but unfortunately, I couldn't make the physical test due to being in Thailand at the time. However, everything happens for a reason, and I soon joined a digital agency.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in a career in your sector? Take the time to thoroughly know and understand your business environment. Familiarise yourself with the industry, its trends, challenges, and opportunities. Equally important is seeking out support and guidance, by reaching out to experienced professionals or organisations that can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
What makes the North East a good place to do business? The North East presents an ideal environment for business. We have a robust industrial cluster and an exciting trajectory toward global leadership in renewable and clean energy. Our region is underpinned by excellent infrastructure, supported by a great university, and a spirit of collaboration.
How important do you think it is for business to play a role in society? Business ethics and giving back are very important. It's linked to company values. It's linked to sustainability, whether it's getting involved with community initiatives or offering opportunities to young people. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it can also attract investment and attract talent as it's important to people.
Outside of work, what are you really good at? Ever since I was seven, I have been interested in horse riding. I’ve had my current horse, Ted, for 10 years. He’s an ex-racehorse.