Success in the face of tragedy

Taking over the business reins of Ship Shape Software when her husband passed away 13 years ago, and with no prior experience of the industry, Chrissie du Barry had two choices – sink or swim. She chose the latter and today the business is flourishing, with only three clients having left when “the going got tough”. “Our clients were very nervous at the time and I did not want to let them down. I am so glad I decided to stay and make it work and I am so grateful to them for their loyalty,” said Du Barry. Furthermore, she doesn’t believe being a woman held her back in any way, in fact it probably helped her. “In time I managed to hire the right people to keep the business ticking over and started from the ground up, building the strong team I have today. “Hiring people is always a challenge and I think as a woman we have a sixth sense, so if you listen to that you tend to make the right decisions.” Though the early days were indeed very challenging she says she was always encouraged by friends and family who reinforced the fact that she is a very capable person and can do anything she puts her mind to. “I think this holds true for everyone else out there. It’s a matter of persevering.” And, thankfully, her Jack Russells are very forgiving if she gets home late and they are always pleased to see her. INSERT ‘Hiring people is always a challenge and as a woman we have a sixth sense.’ CAPTION Chrissie du Barry ... Perseverance pays off.