Woven into Leadership: Michelle’s Career at ELITE

Michelle joined ELITE Clothing Solutions in 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience in garment manufacturing. She became one of the first machinists under the Better Jobs Closer to Home Scheme, a Welsh Government initiative designed to create meaningful employment in local communities.

“I first started at ELITE as a machinist,” Michelle shares. “I was looking for a change in my career and heard about ELITE. I wanted to have more meaning to my career, and ELITE’s ethics stood out. I found that being able to help and train people appealed to me".

With her steady approach and strong work ethic, Michelle quickly became a valued member of the team. Over time, she stepped into a new role as Senior Supervisor, where she now leads the production of embroidered garments for well-known organisations like Cadw, Transport for Wales, and The Big Issue.

"I have gained a lot of confidence with people, including customers and suppliers,” noted Michelle. “I have gained better leadership and people skills. I am able to plan our working schedule along with thinking on my feet. I am also becoming more confident with my computer skills."

Michelle is also close to completing her ILM Level 5 qualification, further building on her leadership and management abilities. But for her, the most rewarding part of the job is the impact she’s had on others.

“My proudest moment is supporting a work colleague go from being very nervous and unsure of themselves, to being a vital and confident member of the team - along with seeing they have potential to go on to have good managerial skills in the future.”

Her journey reflects what’s possible when experience is recognised and people are supported to grow in a workplace that values everyone’s contribution.

Michelle adds, “Working at ELITE makes me proud to be part of a team who works together well, and encourages team members to improve themselves and their work colleagues. Whether your goal is to be more independent, or have better career opportunities, ELITE will work with you to help guide you, and help you realise your full potential.”