06/08/26
The people behind Peartree: Nichola Underwood
As Peartree celebrates 40 years in business, we are recognising the people who have helped shape the company throughout its journey. While many of our employee stories focus on long service, others demonstrate the opportunities that exist for people to build lasting careers within the business.
For Divisional Director Julie Francis, supporting the development of others has become one of the most rewarding aspects of her role. Having spent more than a decade with Peartree, she has played a key role in helping colleagues progress through the business, including Kennedy Nicholson, Operations Manager.
Kennedy first joined Peartree at the age of 19, taking on temporary holiday cover whilst studying at university. What began as a short-term opportunity soon developed into a career.
Over the years Kennedy has progressed to a managerial role gaining experience across the business and developing the confidence to take on greater responsibility.
Looking back, she laughs when reflecting on how much she has changed.
“You wouldn’t believe it now, but when I first started, I wouldn’t speak to anyone.”
Today, Kennedy manages a team of 26 operatives and oversees service delivery with a flagship luxury retail environment in Manchester. Having started on the frontline herself, she believes that experience has given her a strong understanding of both the challenges and opportunities faced by operational teams.
For Julie, watching Kennedy’s progression has been one of the highlights of her own career.
“One of my proudest achievements has been seeing Kennedy develop. To watch somebody grow in confidence, take on new challenges and progress into a leadership role is incredibly rewarding.”
The pair’s journey reflects something that has remained consistent throughout Peartree’s 40-year history: recognising potential and creating opportunities for people to develop.
What started as temporary holiday work has evolved into a leadership role overseeing a large operational team, demonstratng how careers can grow when talent is supported and encouraged.
As Peartree marks this significant milestone, Julie and Kennedy’s story serves as a reminder that success of the business has always been shaped by its people, and by those willing to invest their time in helping others succeed.
