How did you get your career started as a PA?
I returned from travelling and was looking for some temporary work while I figured out my next career move. I had used Bain & Gray before and so trusted them with finding me the right place. That temporary PA role then became a permanent one!
What about your role do you like most?
I’m the PA to the CEO at Housing Justice – a charity working to alleviate homelessness in all its forms. Our work is channelled through a variety of initiatives – from a night shelter network to a hosting program for destitute migrants, as well as more. Due to the variety of our work, the most enjoyable part of my role is joining meetings – I’m always learning new things and I love finding out what each project has been working on.
Who has been your most inspirational boss/mentor and why?
My most inspirational boss is my current one - Kathy Mohan. She has done a phenomenal job at leading HJ, particularly during Covid which triggered a number of changes to the night shelter format. We are a small charity but have national reach and influence, and that is thanks to her leadership over the last few years.
What’s your biggest achievement as a PA?
Organising the Safeguarding training and policy reviews. Safeguarding is such an important piece of work and it was quite a complex project, so I am proud of my contribution to it.
When are you most productive?
In the morning, preferably after a swim!
If you could pick up a new skill what would it be?
Learning Spanish – I visited Mexico this year and completely fell in love with the country and culture. I would love to speak Spanish well and live there for a year.
What three attributes do you think make a good PA?
Resilient - I work well under pressure and can handle set-backs.
People person - in my role I have to form relationships with everyone, from our volunteers to the Trustees.
Highly organised - my excel spreadsheets are known in the office!
What was the last book you read?
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.