A former retail manager who is embarking on a second career in a popular fast-food restaurant says it has given her a new lease of life.
Marie Docherty spent most of her working life as a supervisor for a massive multinational until her mental health took a turn for the worse.
Around the same time, her mother, Lila Crothers, became ill and that’s when the East Belfast woman opted to step away from the rat race and focus on her family instead.
But after some time off, Marie is back in business, this time as a Lobby Assistant at McDonald’s Knocknagoney.
“I started working at the restaurant last May and I absolutely love it,” she said. “Healthwise, I’m only capable of a few days a week so I just work part-time. I’m grateful for the job; I feel as though I’m part of the team and everyone is very respectful.”
Marie left the world of retail in 2004 to be mum’s carer until she passed away in 2010, aged 77. Having decided to return to work, she initially took a job at a department store before ultimately switching to McDonald’s.
Marie, who just turned 60, probably knows the importance of job satisfaction more than most, having come close to losing everything she owned.
“I nearly lost my house because I couldn’t repay my mortgage,” she said. “It was frightening, and times were very tough.
“Thankfully, when I turned 55, I got a lump sum from my former employer with which I paid off my debts and I was able to get my head above water again.”
Among the perks of the job for Marie is spending time with people and feeling valued in the workplace.
“I was ‘Employee of the Month’ in March and received a £10 voucher,” she said. “At this stage of my life, when my children have flown the nest, I’ve got a new purpose.”
The restaurant’s location close to Belfast City Airport ensures a diverse clientele, which keeps Marie, who works 16 hours a week, on her toes.
“We get a lot of visitors and tourists, so I’ve met people from everywhere,” the grandmother-of-two said. “There are also lots of elderly customers and disabled groups.”
Marie also told how she dressed up as a bear to great effect one Halloween.
“Dressing up was funny as one of the children with Downs Syndrome thought I was a real bear and followed me around,” she recalled.
“We took some photos of him with the ‘bear’ and we’re going to get them framed and put them up in the restaurant.”
Franchisee Des Lamph, who also has restaurants in Abbey Centre, Carrickfergus and Downpatrick, said Marie was an inspiration to all.
“Customers and staff enjoy seeing Maire at Knocknagoney and we feel very lucky to have her as part of the team,” he said.
“Nothing is too much trouble for Marie and we are spoiled to have such a devoted employee and kind-hearted person to brighten everyone’s day.”
Marie is delighted to have found a new calling in life and happiness in her job. “I feel like I’m the face of McDonald’s as I’m always out and about in the restaurant with all the customers,” she said.
“I was recently promoted to a supervisory role in the lobby, with a little extra pay, and I’m very proud of having achieved that.
She added: “I’d be happy to stay here and continue doing exactly the same job until I retire. I’ve definitely found my happy place.”
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