Michaela Knight, Synergy Cleaning Ltd (From York Press)

Michaela Knight, Synergy Cleaning Ltd

1:49pm Friday 23rd July 2010 in

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WITH nearly 20 years in the cleaning industry, York single parent Michaela Knight decided that it was time to really clean up.

Having launched Synergy Cleaning Ltd only eight months ago, she has succeeded in doing just that – employing 27 people, three of them full-time, securing big contracts and generating a 35 per cent net profit.

Now Michaela wants her dynamic venture to earn the title New Business Of The Year and at the same time she has the Women In Enterprise accolade in her sights. With the orderliness of an expert cleaner, Michaela spent the first few months after setting up Synergy Cleaning “doing endless courses with Business Link, all of which gave me insight into what my customers would be looking for”.

Using local staff and suppliers, the contracts began trickling in – and then came the big breakthrough, when she won the tender to clean 22 Wilkinson hardware stores, including the chain’s head office.

Michaela is convinced that what sets hers apart from other cleaning firms is its emphasis on customer service and quality control, as well as treatment of her staff.

“Cleaning has always been seen as a job at the bottom of the pile, but I genuinely care about my staff. I always pay above the national wage, we have a bonus scheme and carry out regular training.

“Being a single mother myself, I know the importance of family life and fully understand and drive this throughout my business.”