Jeanette Forbes has redefined entrepreneurial resilience. Embarking on her venture with a mere £100, she faced formidable obstacles in the oil and gas industry, emerging as a formidable leader.
Her story, marked by profound challenges and unwavering determination, serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Forbes’ journey highlights the essence of Yorkshire grit and perseverance.
The Early Struggles and Determination
Jeanette Forbes, the CEO and founder of PCL Group, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with minimal resources. Starting with only £100 in the bank in 2000, she faced the daunting challenge of establishing an IT service provider in the competitive oil & gas sector in Aberdeen. Despite encountering £179,000 of bad debt and the tragic loss of her ex-husband, Forbes demonstrated remarkable resilience and unwavering determination.
Forbes’ tenacity is rooted in her past experiences, including her childhood helping her grandparents sell fish and chips at 4 am. Her mixed Yorkshire and Scottish accent reflects a background of hard work and unyielding persistence. Even on the day of her ex-husband’s funeral, she chose to be in the office, epitomising her commitment to her enterprise and her team.
Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
Navigating the male-dominated oil and gas industry presented significant challenges for Forbes. Often the only woman on the rigs, she faced pranks and resistance but never allowed her gender to define her professional capabilities. Instead, she actively engaged with her male colleagues by learning about sports to gain acceptance and foster cooperation. Her adeptness in communication and competence did not go unnoticed, earning her respect and admiration.
Forbes embraced the necessity of changing her mindset to thrive in such environments. By broadening her interests and showing genuine understanding of her colleagues’ worlds, she broke stereotypes and showcased her abilities beyond expectations. Her journey underscores the evolving landscape of gender dynamics in traditionally male-centric industries.
The Power of Team Loyalty and Community
The loyalty Forbes cultivated within her team proved invaluable during challenging periods. When confronted with substantial debt, she made the conscious decision to navigate the company through it rather than declaring insolvency.
Forbes transparently communicated the tough reality to her staff, whom she assured about her commitment to recovery. The mutual trust and dedication were evident when her team chose to stand by her, accepting the challenge of potential pay freezes and uncertainty. This collective resilience reinforced the strength of community and shared purpose within the workplace.
Jeanette’s emphasis on staff development and cohesive teamwork not only helped PCL weather financial storms but also solidified its internal culture. Her leadership style, characterised by empathy and determination, inspired a profound sense of loyalty and unity among her employees.
Innovating Beyond Traditional Boundaries
Adapting to evolving market demands, Forbes is now leveraging her expertise as a consultant for GoHawk. By contributing to the development of the fastest flight route algorithm globally, she illustrates her forward-thinking approach and commitment to technological advancement.
Forbes is also driven to foster new talent by establishing a centre of excellence for students. This initiative aims to instill confidence and provide industry insights, grooming the next generation of professionals. Her belief that everyone possesses an entrepreneurial spirit aligns with her efforts to unlock potential within individuals.
Lessons in Resilience and Adaptation
Forbes’ journey embodies essential lessons in resilience and adaptation. Confronted with substantial setbacks, her resolve to overcome adversity became the cornerstone of her personal and professional success.
Her experiences demonstrate the importance of maintaining perspective through challenges. Forbes’ ability to reassess her strategies and make informed decisions reflects her strength and adaptability, providing a compelling example for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The emphasis on learning from experiences, both good and bad, underscores the continuous nature of growth and progress in business. Forbes’ story is one of grit and evolution, offering inspiration to those facing their own obstacles.
Empowering Future Generations
Jeanette Forbes is not only committed to her current endeavours but also passionate about nurturing future leaders. By actively sharing her insights and experiences, she empowers others to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations confidently.
Her vision for creating a supportive and informative environment for students and emerging professionals highlights her dedication to impactful mentorship. Forbes’ belief in passing on knowledge reflects her understanding of the importance of legacy and lasting influence.
Yorkshire Grit in Action
Forbes’ journey is a testament to the true meaning of Yorkshire grit. Her resolve and achievements illuminate how tenacity and hard work pave the way for success in any field.
Jeanette Forbes’ story of resilience and determination is a beacon of inspiration, showcasing how grit and hard work lead to success.
Her journey reiterates the transformative power of resilience and community, encouraging future generations to embrace challenges with courage and tenacity.
