“ I ’ m often referred to as a parachute as I ’ m frequently ‘ dropped ’ into an area of the business to either kickstart a project that has stalled or explore why initiatives are not progressing as they should .” targeted than it used to be as we ’ re all hybrid working these days . I started my current role in lockdown and felt that my induction programme was super intense . But the flip side is that I was up and running a lot quicker , I feel , than if I ’ d been in a physical space . Because of the remote element , I had to work a lot harder and swifter in building those relationships I needed to make me successful .
RECOGNITION
“ I ’ m often referred to as a parachute as I ’ m frequently ‘ dropped ’ into an area of the business to either kickstart a project that has stalled or explore why initiatives are not progressing as they should .” targeted than it used to be as we ’ re all hybrid working these days . I started my current role in lockdown and felt that my induction programme was super intense . But the flip side is that I was up and running a lot quicker , I feel , than if I ’ d been in a physical space . Because of the remote element , I had to work a lot harder and swifter in building those relationships I needed to make me successful .
Do you use any interesting technology to improve the work environment , safety or wellbeing of employees in some way ? We ’ re working hard towards being known as a ‘ digital first ’ organisation for both our members and colleagues . My team have a weekly virtual ‘ huddle ’ then in-person meetings with dinner and drinks once a quarter . Everyone makes a special effort to attend . Outside of these I know I can call on any one of my team members for support – just yesterday , I was feeling the pinch of a heavy week and put a call out asking if anyone fancied a ‘ virtual coffee ’ as I needed to be with humans . Out of the team of ten , six showed up in an instant . I feel very lucky to be in the position I find myself in !
Tell us about your direct report ( s ). I ’ m blessed to manage our CEO team administrator , Jemma . When my boss asked me to undertake this piece of recruitment she said : “ Jo , what we really need is another ‘ you ’”. And I think we should be careful what we wish for because Jemma is a mini-me and I had no idea how much so until we started working together … Watch this space !
How does she support you ? Jemma just naturally takes away the day-to-day from me so I can focus on the future and visionary piece of my organisation with my boss . She ’ s quite simply , and very quickly , made my life easier .
And how do you support her ? I try to be there for Jemma whenever she needs me . It ’ s a real pleasure offering support , advice and guidance , and I have an overwhelming desire to set her up for success . I just know she is going to make a huge difference to , not only the team , but our organisation overall .
What would Jemma say about you ? She may say that I push her to be her best at all times , and that I possibly churn out her work at a rate , pace and volume that she ’ s not quite used to yet ! But I do know she ’ s enjoying her role so far . Just last week she messaged me , out of the blue , saying she was having a lovely day and was excited to be working with me . I can ’ t ask for more than that really .
And finally , what are your top tips for senior level PAs looking to create a great culture in their organisation ? Always be the bigger person in the room , and hold a professional , warm , friendly style and tone . Role model desirable behaviours at all times , regardless of whatever and whoever you are faced with . S
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Winter Issue 2023 | Executive PA 23