Rachel Tompkins

Deputy Funeral Service Manager, Heritage & Son, Winslow

My Story

Hi I am Rachel. I have been working for CPJ Field now for over 2 years now. I started working at CPJ Field as a FSTM. However, my current role is that of Deputy Funeral Service Manager, supporting the Funeral Service Manager, with the daily running of the whole Funeral delivery operation.

I still do the role of FSTM if not required in the office. I love this role as it is never repetitive. I could be involved with the preparation of the deceased for presentation in the Chapel of Rest or checking and maintaining the mortuary register. I do have to be willing to assist with duties which arise on a day-to-day basis, and I am responsible for keeping everything clean and tidy including the reception areas and offices. I also drive our limousines which can carry up to six passengers.

Rolls Royce Limousine

As I have spent more time now working in the industry, I am also involved in the initial training of all our new FSTMs, supporting them in their first weeks working for the company, showing them the ropes.

The funeral industry is one that for many years I had ambitions of getting into, and I can honestly say that I have never looked back. My strengths I feel are that I am compassionate about my work and always strive to do the best I possibly can for our clients and their loved ones in our care. I can work alone or as part of a team and under pressure.

Before joining CPJ I worked for South Central Ambulance service for 22 years, serving the public, this involved being part of a 2-person crew and alone on the paramedic response car. I did this for the first 19 years then moved to the control room, taking the 999 calls for a while then onto the training side of the company for my last couple of years. This was great experience for what I do now. I am very used to supporting people at difficult times.

Outside of work my main interest is horse riding. I have my own horse and enjoy riding out in the countryside alongside my daughter; this is my de-stress remedy. I also love getting stuck into a good book, and spending time with my family.