The Greencroft Estate in Annfield Plain is home to Greencroft Bottling and Lanchester Wines – sister businesses within the family-owned The Lanchester Group. Each is amongst the leading businesses in its sector and, combined, they are one of the biggest employers in our area. Consett Magazine has been given exclusive access to meet the people behind the scenes who keep these businesses running.
Wendy Hopps, Training Administration Assistant at Greencroft Bottling, is celebrating an impressive 14 years with the company. Her journey began as short-term holiday cover on reception, but her adaptability and people-first approach quickly saw her move into the Customs and Excise department, supporting administration while still helping on reception if needed.
After six years, Wendy transitioned into the HR team, where she found her stride organising training and compliance. “We’re such a big team covering so many varied roles that it’s vital to keep training records up to date and ensure everyone is equipped for their role,” she explains. From induction and mandatory training to first aid and mental health awareness, Wendy coordinates a wide range of internal and external courses tailored to the needs of the business.
Wendy’s own professional development has been just as dynamic. With a background in banking, she previously managed a team responsible for setting up major accounts for international clients. “I’ve always enjoyed building relationships with people,” she says. That passion led her to complete a CIPD Level 5 qualification in People Management through the apprenticeship levy, a rigorous programme that she finished in March 2025. “It’s about understanding the fundamentals of HR and applying them in a real-world setting,” she adds.
What keeps Wendy motivated after more than a decade? “It’s the people,” she says with a smile. “Even though we have around 300 staff, I can’t walk between offices without saying hello to at least 20 people. That sense of connection is special.”
Coming from a corporate background, Wendy appreciates the openness and accessibility at Greencroft Bottling.
There are benefits to working in a corporate world, but it can be a cold place. Here, I can speak freely with the owners or any of the directors, and that’s quite refreshing.
Greencroft Bottling and Lanchester Wines are growing, and they’re looking for people to join our teams. If you’re enthusiastic, hard-working and seeking a career in which you can progress, visit their website: www.greencroftbottling.com/recruitment and www.lanchesterwines.co.uk/careers-at-lanchester-wines/
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👉 Read her inspiring journey:
https://consettmagazine.com/2025/10/13/meet-the-people-behind-the-pour-wendy-hopps/
Massive well done Wendy 👏🏻 👏🏻🎓🏆 xxx