From cleaner to commercial expansion supervisor

Beaulah Isaack serves as Salt Essential IT’s commercial expansion supervisor. She became a 'Saltie' in 2011 when she joined the team as a sales assistant.

Despite not having any prior knowledge of software, hardware or sales-related products, she was mentored by Vanessa Maresch, Salt’s empowerment specialist.

She has since climbed the corporate ladder to her current position. “I owe Vanessa Maresch a lot for showing me the ropes. It was because of her that my potential was realised by my commercial manager, Christopher Swart, who promoted me to the supervisor position. I am very proud of my achievement,” Isaack said.



Background and motivation

Before joining Salt Essential IT, Isaack worked at a retail shop, choosing not to stay idle at home after matriculation. She was later recommended to take up an office assistant position by her aunt at an IT company, which she gladly welcomed. After spending years cleaning and making tea for clients, she found herself promoted to a receptionist position. Here, she handled, among other things, the company’s calls and emails. “I enjoyed my work and learned new skills; unfortunately, the company closed down.”

Isaack said her motivation stems from self-belief, a passion for learning and embracing challenges. She values feedback and support from colleagues and mentors, emphasising that learning is a lifelong process. “I am always seeking opportunities to develop myself personally and professionally. I enjoy finding solutions to challenging problems, learning from my colleagues, as well as sharing my knowledge and skills. Getting recognition for my work and appreciation for my contribution is top-tier," she said.



Navigating challenges

Her career journey has not been without hurdles; she found herself tempted to quit her job at one point. To counter this, she acknowledged Salt’s managing director, Sonja Coetzer, for her "amazing support and motivation."

She further emphasised the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, navigating difficult colleagues and staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies in her field. “I overcome these challenges by setting clear boundaries and priorities, communicating effectively and respectfully, and investing in continuous learning and development.”



Responsibilities and future

As Salt’s commercial expansion supervisor, Isaack’s role is to support the commercial expansion manager in planning and executing strategies for growing their organisation. She oversees the daily operations of her department and ensures that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, she coordinates with other departments and stakeholders to align their goals and objectives.

In the manager’s absence, she assumes the responsibility of leading the team and making decisions in the company’s best interest.

Isaack's advice to aspiring individuals is to work hard, be respectful and learn from mistakes. She emphasised the importance of treating others the way one would like to be treated to earn their trust and respect. Looking back, she basks in her perseverance, hard work and the respect she has earned over the years. She reflects on life as a great teacher who has instilled in her the values of humility, gratitude and optimism. “I appreciate what I have, but I also look forward to new challenges and opportunities. I live by our values of impact, empowerment and challenge.”