Kirsten Blackwell: From veterinary nurse to Tesla manager

What was your pathway into automotive?

I GREW up around farms with animals and always wanted to be a vet. I studied to become a veterinary nurse and loved it. It’s such a rewarding job, but it can also be really emotional — you see all sides. I’ve looked after people who wouldn’t eat in order to fund their dog’s treatment, and I’ve seen the pure joy on someone’s face when you’ve helped nurse their pet back to health. I have so many meaningful, rewarding stories from that time, and it will always be an important part of my journey.

Once I decided to leave veterinary work, I spoke to my three older brothers. They’re all successful in their own right — business owners and major stakeholders in large corporations — and they said, “You can talk to anyone, try sales!” So, I sent out my CV and started building experience in sales roles. I began at David Lloyd Health Clubs, progressing quickly from Sales Consultant to Manager in just a few months. After moving from Swansea to Cardiff, I took an operational role for a few months — and then the Tesla opportunity came up.

I joined Tesla in August 2022 as an Account Manager for South West England and Wales. I held that role for just over a year before moving into the Broker Account Manager role in August 2023, and I was promoted to Senior Manager in March 2025.

What drew you into the automotive industry?

Tesla: I was especially drawn to the sustainability aspect and the company’s ethos of “be the change you want to see.” Tesla values autonomy, which really appealed to me. During my interview, it was clear they focus on who you are as a person and your potential — they encourage big ideas and blue-sky thinking. As soon as I joined, I knew it was the right fit.

How are you finding the sector and the broking world?

I love it. That said, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like working with another OEM, because I know Tesla is very different — and that’s something I hear from brokers. Tesla is a real disruptor, and that’s exactly what I love about it.

I have to say, the brokers I’ve met so far have been fantastic. When I looked after corporate sales, my very first broker meeting was with Carparison, and it left a lasting impression — the team was so helpful and welcoming. So, when the opportunity came up to become UK & Ireland Broker Manager, I jumped at it!

What’s it like working at Tesla?

Tesla has amazing people, leadership, and resources. I’ve always believed that having a voice is critical — and I never want to do the same as everyone else — so Tesla has been a perfect fit. The culture is incredibly welcoming. I had no automotive or broker experience before joining, but the team was so reassuring. I’ve always felt empowered by my managers, and to me, that’s what good leadership looks like.

Tesla puts a lot of belief in you. They offer great opportunities and the foundations to be successful. The culture of “ask for forgiveness, not permission” makes it fast-paced, interesting, and hugely rewarding. There’s a short chain of command, so it’s easy to implement changes quickly — which really matters in this space.

What does a typical day look like in your role?

I look after some of the top brokers in the UK and Ireland, so I’m regularly checking in with key accounts and ensuring strong communication channels. I like to pick up the phone, be on hand, and, where possible, meet in person — I think face-to-face meetings are invaluable. That means I’m on the road two or three days a week.

I also spend time planning for the quarter ahead and refining the longer-term vision for the year.

Internally, I work closely with other Tesla teams to streamline our operations order processes. I collaborate with Tesla data analysts to understand our market position and identify growth opportunities. And of course, a big part of what we do is about educating people on the transition to electric vehicles and the wider impact of the Tesla ecosystem.

What’s your car history?

My first car was a shared MINI with my mum. Then, when I got my first job, I bought a Volkswagen Scirocco TDI Limited Edition (I think the dealer saw me coming!) — a real ‘cars car’ for someone who knew absolutely nothing about cars! I still have the Scirocco, but I am a Tesla Model 3 Performance girl.