TeamTalk: A Spotlight on Ana Gouveia
This month in our Spotlight On series, we introducing the CPC Drive team responsible for managing vehicle leasing and salary sacrifice services for NHS and public sector across the UK. This edition features Ana Gouveia, a valued member of the managed service team, known for her attentive and caring approach.
Having grown up in Portugal, do you think that experience has influenced how you connect with people or how you show up at work?
I have always been an easy person to talk to, but moving to the UK definitely made me even more social. It is such a diverse country compared to where I grew up, and I have been lucky to meet people from all over the world here. That has shaped who I am today. I am more open, more confident, and I can relate to people from different backgrounds. That makes such a difference when you are working with so many trusts and customers across the NHS.
You are known for being really attentive to your colleagues’ preferences. How do you think this attention to detail impacts your team’s dynamic and success?
For me, good teamwork starts with good relationships. I notice the little things because everyone is different and should be treated as an individual. If someone is having a tough day or works better in a certain way, I try to adapt so they feel supported. It is the same with customers – when you take the time to understand their preferences and how they like to work, it builds trust. In our role, that trust makes all the difference and helps build relationships that last.
What brought you to NOE CPC, and what have you learned so far in your time here?
Before this role, I was working in the NHS with a different trust, in procurement and data analysis. When I saw this job, it felt like the perfect mix – I could still use my organisational and problem-solving skills, but also work more closely with people. Since joining, I have learned so much more about the financial side of lease cars and salary sacrifice – things like deductions, early termination fees, and working with trust finance teams. Sue and Adam have taught me a lot, and it has been great to develop alongside such a knowledgeable and supportive team.
What is something you have done recently that made you feel proud of your contribution?
Not long ago, I helped a driver who was worried about a payroll deduction after her car had been collected. She was anxious, so I made sure to explain everything clearly, reassure her, and let her know what would happen next. I always try to treat people the way I would like to be treated, and when someone thanks me afterwards for making a stressful situation easier, that is when I feel proud of my work.
How do you feel your work supports your team and the organisations you help?
By focusing on the people I am working with – whether that is a colleague or a customer. Everyone has different needs, so I try to tailor my approach and make sure they feel understood. I like to share knowledge with the team and keep communication open so we can work together smoothly. We might be doing a lot of it in the background, but that is what keeps things running for our customers.
What is one thing you have learned from working with your team that has helped you in your role?
I have gained a lot of new skills in finance and procurement, but I have also learned how important it is to combine my knowledge with the experience of others. We all bring something different, and working closely together means we can provide the best service possible and keep improving.
If someone new were joining your role, what advice would you give them to feel confident and do their best work?
Never panic and be flexible. In this job, your day can change completely, so you have to be ready to adapt. Get to know your customers and your colleagues, and do not be afraid to ask questions – there will always be someone willing to help.
A little birdie tells me you love to dance, and may have even broken your ankle doing it. If you had to pick, what is your signature dance move?
Yes, I broke my ankle doing the samba earlier this year! I do not copy anyone’s moves – I just feel the music and go with it. For me, it is all about enjoying the moment.
If you would like to learn more about the CPC Drive Managed Service, visit www.cpcdrive.com or the CPC Drive Framework page at www.noecpc.nhs.uk/contracts/cpc-drive-provision-of-vehicle-leasing-and-salary-sacrifice-scheme. You can also contact the team at cpcdrive.lypft@nhs.net.