Mehma Bridgen: Delivering Organizational Change Through Challenge 

The Fuel Store demonstrates resilience and determination, underpinned by core values that drive the fuel industry! 

The fuel industry is a dynamic sector that operates around the clock to meet the demands of a wide range of customers. As global reliance on fuel continues, the industry must navigate a complex landscape of technological advancements, regulatory changes, and market competition. Maintaining a competitive edge requires constant innovation and adaptation, ensuring that fuel solutions are both efficient and aligned with the latest industry standards. 

Guiding the charge in this competitive field is Mehma Bridgen, the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer. With a background that includes a mix of public sector experience and entrepreneurial success, Mehma has skillfully transitioned from managing complex projects in law enforcement to steering a successful business venture. Her journey underscores a commitment to overcoming obstacles and driving organizational growth through strategic insights and unwavering dedication. 

The Fuel Store stands out in this competitive landscape by offering a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to meet diverse customer needs. As a prominent player in the fuel card market, The Fuel Store is dedicated to innovation and client convenience, aiming to disrupt conventional practices and enhance the overall customer experience. Through strategic client partnerships and a focus on growing market demands, the company continues to set new standards in the industry. 

From Overcoming Career Setbacks to Leading a Multi-Million-Pound Enterprise 

Mehma gained invaluable experience as a Project Officer for the East Midlands Police Collaboration Team (EMPCT) at 22, working closely with Chiefs and learning about organizational dynamics and politics early in her career. Despite her potential, her progress was stymied by managers. At a crucial time for Mehma, a Chief Superintendent spotted her potential and temporarily moved her to Leicestershire Constabulary. It became apparent to Mehma the potential she had, and natural early signs of leadership were being obstructed by those above her. 

After her time with the police, Mehma joined her husband, Jamie, in his early venture, Watersure, an online water treatment distributor. It was during this time that The Fuel Store was born,    which has since become a significant force in the fuel card market. As a leader of a committed team in the fuel industry, Mehma navigates a complex landscape with both conviction and courage. Her journey has not only shaped her professional identity but also instilled a strong determination to succeed and a belief that anyone can achieve their goals. 

Reinvigorating the Business through effective Change Management 

A large-scale change management operation was led by Mehma to revitalize the business, focusing on people-centric issues and cultural shifts for high performance. Change management within the front end of the business involved successfully navigating a shift in performance back to the trajectory of performance levels the company saw in the early growth years. Within six months, talent acquisition and strategy/governance saw improvements. A firm business case was developed to address embedded issues while carefully managing people, performance, and motivation. 

"Sometimes in business, bold decisions have to be made to achieve expected outcomes." Commitment to fixing the problems and doing so consistently during this challenging time were the factors that made for a successful change. Mehma's firm but fair management style and strategic decision-making have been instrumental in the company's recent events. Mistakes were made along the way too, which is all part and parcel of it, and owning and learning from mistakes was a crucial part. She values integrity and follow-through and fosters a supportive team culture. 

Disruptive Sales Strategies 

Navigating her career early on and guided by her mother, who encouraged her to pursue psychology, and her father rooted in business, Mehma opted to study BSc in Human Psychology and MSc in Clinical Criminology, which allowed her to explore human behaviors in depth. The deep interest in human functioning and the behaviors that govern us have been crucial in her leadership and company management. 

Her early career in the East Midlands Police Collaboration Team provided insights into hierarchy, governance, and authority. In the early years of Watersure, Mehma discovered her niche in sales and persuasion, securing meetings with key buyers and significantly contributing to the brands visibility in major retail catalogs and stores. It was here that Mehma realized her potential in negotiation and conviction and that she was highly persuasive. She went on to establish early blueprints that positioned and still position The Fuel Store as a disruptor in a highly margin-driven market, that of fuel. Her sales methodologies, based on a deep understanding of human behaviors, helped formalize an unregulated market to ensure customer retention.  

Leadership through Confidence and Humility 

Mehma leads with confidence and conviction, drawing from a deep understanding of the market and solid foundations in psychology. For her and Jamie, leadership goes beyond mere authority; it is about the development of their people and providing an environment with clear strategic direction, coupled with fostering an empowering culture where individualities can thrive.  

At the same time, Mehma is a firm advocate for accountability. She emphasizes, "While we can all have fun, everyone is ultimately accountable for their roles and responsibilities." This balance of empowerment and accountability defines her approach to leadership. 

Humility is another cornerstone of Mehma's philosophy. She recognizes that there are times when a leader must show vulnerability. Confidence is crucial, but the ability to admit a mistake or acknowledge a learning experience is equally important. This blend of strength and humility shapes her leadership style and the culture within their organization. 

Navigating Bias & in a Male-Dominated Industry 

Mehma understands that her dual role of mother & businesswoman requires operating at a high frequency to ensure she keeps ahead, this may not be understood by others and balancing a healthy network of family and friends while on this journey has required her to keep her professional and personal lives separate. 

As a woman in a predominantly male industry, Mehma has faced numerous challenges and encountered setbacks on her journey to success. She recognizes that the path has not always been smooth and acknowledges the prevailing biases in her taking the stance that she has. She firmly believes that everyone deserves a seat at the table. The goal is to build a successful personal brand and establish a presence as a female leader in business and the oil sector. Efforts are focused on developing a tone of voice that effectively represents her in a male-dominated market. 

Dual role of Mother and Boss 

Mehma highlights the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and prioritizing family alongside her professional responsibilities. She and her husband establish designated office days to create a routine that accommodates their personal commitments. This approach facilitates quality family time and contributes to a well-rounded lifestyle. Managing the company as a husband-and-wife team has presented considerable challenges. The business was launched in the same year that Jamie & Mehma married, which impacted the early years of their marriage. Today, as parents to two daughters, they successfully balance their distinct styles and roles to effectively manage and grow the business. 

Cultivating a People-Centric Culture for Brand Growth 

Driving a strong employee value proposition through a people-focused approach has helped the brand gain traction and foster a sense of belonging among existing employees and customers. This strategy positions the company as an active, people-centric culture, which is fundamental to its mission of prioritizing good people and values at its core. 

The post-pandemic office culture is witnessing a significant shift toward more remote work, prompting the company to enhance its employee value proposition. This strategic move allows other elements to align?seamlessly. 

At the heart of the organization are the Fuellers, whose values define its identity and drive its success. Passion ignites their initiatives, providing the energy needed to advance and innovate. Drive empowers them to envision future possibilities, encouraging the exploration of new opportunities. Ownership fosters accountability, ensuring that commitments are met with consistent delivery. Integrity shapes their decision-making, guiding them to make choices that lead to optimal outcomes. Collectively, these values establish a strong foundation for the company's ongoing achievements.