Dana Calitaridis

I was born and raised in Romania and moved to the UK in 2007. Before moving to London, I was in the education sector where I was a French Teacher for a secondary school. Leading and training is a passion of mine, and I am glad that as a Security Supervisor I can continue to apply my skills in training my team. I find it extremely rewarding when I see a team member that I trained running a project with confidence.   

What does equality and diversity mean to you?

Equality and diversity are two core values in my personal and work life. I believe everyone deserves fair treatment and equal opportunity to learn and develop. I treat everyone across my team with the same level of respect and dignity, regardless of their age, race, gender, culture beliefs or skills.

How long have you been working for DGP and how did you come to join us? What roles have you deliver at DGP?

I joined our DGP family over 9 years ago. I was working at the Shard as a supervisor for a cleaning firm when a senior member of the DGP security team approached me in regard to a position. Following a successful interview, I was welcomed to the Division as a Security Receptionist and was later promoted to a Site Security Supervisor in 2014. I have been trained across many areas of the business and had the opportunity to work as a Fire Marshal, Assistant Logistics Manager and proudly achieved CLOCS Training and most recently achieved my SMSTS.

Do you feel supported within your role?

Yes, I feel supported. When I need advice or guidance within my role, DGP is there for me at the end of the phone, or even paying me a site visit. Feeling supported, makes me feel motivated, boosts my morale, and increases my performance.

Do you feel there are opportunities to guide you on your career journey with DGP?

Yes. Over the past 9 years, DGP has supported me to build upon my skill set to further reach my career aspirations. Being given opportunities to train across different roles has increased my value across the organisation and allowed me to identify my strengths and align my career goals. DGP continue to invest in me, and I hope with further guidance and opportunities to be a site manager one day. 

How does it feel to be a female working within a male dominated industry and do you feel respected?

I feel respected and know my voice is heard. No one has ever treated me differently based on my gender. DGP has always treated me equally and fairly and I’m respected for my experience, ideas and what I can bring to the table. In return, I always try my best to give back by offering my support and guidance to others.

What is it like working within your role with English being your second language?

I studied English in my country as a second language since the age of 10 and have a great advantage of being bilingual within my role. I am proud that I was able to offer assistance to the emergency services when an incident occurred on site involving members of public. I acted as an interpreter from Romanian to English and vice versa. I feel good when I can contribute to the wellbeing of my staff, my organisation, and the public.