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Kirsty Bennett

Group Financial Controller

Group Financial Controller

Like so many Hendy colleagues, Kirsty is from England’s South Coast. Hendy, after all, is a local South Coast company, and proud of it.

The daughter of naval parents, she joined the motor trade 26 years ago, as a Warranty Administrator for Perrys Motor Sales, before adopting various roles in the aftersales departments of other motor retailers. 

After her children were born, she changed career, moving into finance: 'I've always been drawn to the precision and logic of numbers'. Balancing a full-time role at dealer group Inchcape with the responsibilities of raising two young children, Kirsty dedicated herself to studying for her ACCA qualification, commuting to Reading most weekends. 

Kirsty began at Hendy eight years ago as a Finance Planning and Analysis Manager. 'Two days later, Hendy acquired Lifestyle Motor Group. I don't think I have sat still since.' Since then, Hendy's growth has been phenomenal, both organically and through acquisition. 

She stepped into the role of Group Financial Controller in April 2023. This was not only a milestone in her personal development but also epitomised the culture of growth and advancement within Hendy.

‘Hendy is different from most other big car retailers. You have that family culture but on a mass scale. There is so much focus on our colleagues, as part of a culture that encourages curiosity and lifelong learning. Everyone is valued. There is also less bureaucracy. It’s very simple to get the management team around a table and make things happen. We are very nimble despite our recent growth.’

Kirsty loves the Hendy culture, empowering individuals to reach their full potential and fostering upward mobility. 'I am deeply honoured to be part of a team that values not only professional accomplishments but also personal growth.’