Getting out of debt can be difficult but it’s not impossible
It is humbling to meet someone who genuinely feels they have been fortunate and learnt from experiences that life has thrown at them – both the good and the bad.
In December 2020, George Marsh started working with Debtfix as a Concierge, that is, an assistant who collected a client’s information and documents before handing them onto another crew member. He loved his work, quickly learnt the ropes and progressed to becoming a Debt Navigator, listening to clients’ financial situations, assessing how Debtfix can help and providing solutions.
Years of working in customer service gives George the skills and confidence to work with people and this is boosted by his real enthusiasm for helping others.
“Everything I have done in life has proved to be useful in the long run – even when it may not have seemed so at the time,” says George.
He grew up in the UK and his father recommended he learn a trade, which he did but as soon as he qualified as an automotive mechanic he got out of the workshop and into the office. The skills he picked up opened doors for him throughout the automotive industry, that eventually supported his application to move to New Zealand in 2002.
There was a bit of back and forth between the UK and New Zealand, which was challenging but George was positive throughout and says it all led to good outcomes.
“I’ve learnt a lot from other people and know to take lots of notes and keep good records. Also, I love keeping spreadsheets to track progress and working towards goals.”
His attention to detail means Debtfix’s clients know their information and supporting documents are comprehensive and well-organised, which is essential when dealing with courts and creditors. However, George is far from an admin geek and his outgoing and cheerful personality is a positive influence on others, including people worried about debt.
“I love knowing what lies ahead in my day and I know when I come to work at Debtfix I have a formula to follow that helps people gain control of their money.”
A client he is working with approached Debtfix because they just wanted to apply for bankruptcy and George suggested they investigate the situation fully before taking the last resort action. He sensed they were nervous and worried, and he methodically worked through their debts, income and living expenses to plan a solution that will have a better long-term outcome. George knows the couple works hard during the day and he ensures he has emailed all information to them so they can review and respond to it during the evening.
“I know this is extremely stressful for them and I have to help them find that light – that hope, because it is easy to hide from the problem.
“Getting out of debt can be difficult but it’s not impossible.”
George is a caring guy and he says if he won Lotto he would give half of it away to charity. He is a big fan of sports, keen on darts and tennis and he is not a big fan of his garden but accepts he must get this chore done to keep the family and neighbours happy.
George Marsh - Debtfix Navigator