Samina Azam

Executive Assistant to VP Talent Acquisition, Management & Development at Coca-Cola European Partners

I have supported Senior Executives at Corporate level, in Corporate organisations for many years. I have also worked in the charity, education and social healthcare sector. I am an ambassador for every element of learning and development. Through international public speaking and networking, I am ab... I have supported Senior Executives at Corporate level, in Corporate organisations for many years. I have also worked in the charity, education and social healthcare sector. I am an ambassador for every element of learning and development. Through international public speaking and networking, I am able to reach like-minded peers and fellow students. I am honoured to be part of this committee ? a space where we can connect, network, grow and make a difference.?

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Gilly Mulford FInstAM

Virtual Assistant | Household PA | Professional Pet/House Sitter | Inspirational Speaker

Time is Precious... With a wealth of experience, spanning three decades I now run my own business, Your Household PA, offering Virtual Assistant and Household PA services. I am passionate about imparting knowledge and supporting other EA/PA and VA’s by sharing experiences and expertis... Time is Precious... With a wealth of experience, spanning three decades I now run my own business, Your Household PA, offering Virtual Assistant and Household PA services. I am passionate about imparting knowledge and supporting other EA/PA and VA’s by sharing experiences and expertise. ​ After a life changing experience in 2018, learnt coping strategies have been at the forefront of my development and discussion topics and I now speak on the topic at international events.

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Kim Togneri

Personal Assistant, Travelodge Hotels Ltd

I have over 20 years experience as a PA and I absolutely love the job. Earlier in my career I worked in Finance and IT. I consider myself a ‘people person’ so as soon as I secured my current role in 2011, as PA to the HR Director at Travelodge, I knew it was just perfect for me – and I have b... I have over 20 years experience as a PA and I absolutely love the job. Earlier in my career I worked in Finance and IT. I consider myself a ‘people person’ so as soon as I secured my current role in 2011, as PA to the HR Director at Travelodge, I knew it was just perfect for me – and I have been here ever since! I joined the Committee of Strategic PA Network as I really wanted to be involved in supporting the members but I also wanted to be part of a platform that promotes the capabilities of PAs/EAs to those who don’t necessarily understand what valuable business partners and assets we can be to our Executives. The network is such an amazing community where you can connect with like-minded individuals. I’ve found everyone to be so warm and welcoming, with heaps of enthusiasm and passion for the business support profession. The events are attended by some fantastic trainers and speakers, providing dedicated time for network members to learn and develop – which ultimately maximises opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally. On a more personal note, I live in Buckinghamshire and work in Oxfordshire and occasionally London. I am married with two grown up children and two cats. I’m also a volunteer at a local RSPCA Centre – which I thoroughly enjoy and find very rewarding. I love good food and good wine, the theatre, countryside walks, reading and stationery. Yes, stationery. Totally addicted!

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Kathy Soulsby

Virtual Assistant and Author of Virtually Painless

I’ve always believed that building relationships is vital to being a great PA – and that includes other PAs. As a PA I was usually the only one in a business and it can be quite lonely. As a VA it really is only me so again, the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals is invaluable. ... I’ve always believed that building relationships is vital to being a great PA – and that includes other PAs. As a PA I was usually the only one in a business and it can be quite lonely. As a VA it really is only me so again, the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals is invaluable. I find the events helpful and informative and have many amazing people that I would never have met without the network and I’ve learnt so much from the speakers we’ve had.

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Danni Williams

Executive Assistant at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team

Working as a PA, EA or VA you have to be self-sufficient a majority of the time and it is not often you work as part of a team. Joining the BBO PA Network feels like joining my own team, a group of like-minded, driven individuals who encourage, support and push one another. The network provide... Working as a PA, EA or VA you have to be self-sufficient a majority of the time and it is not often you work as part of a team. Joining the BBO PA Network feels like joining my own team, a group of like-minded, driven individuals who encourage, support and push one another. The network provides development opportunities businesses cannot always provide their support staff. It also, in an inclusive environment gives you the opportunity to network with peers, companies, and speakers with whom you wouldn’t necessarily get the chance to meet!

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Sandrine Shai

Senior Executive Assistant PPS

Sandrine is originally from France and came to England over 20 years ago. After studying tourism, she spent some time in Israel volunteering in a kibbutz and then landed in the UK, where she worked for a French bank in London as an Assistant. She has never looked back ever since and has a real... Sandrine is originally from France and came to England over 20 years ago. After studying tourism, she spent some time in Israel volunteering in a kibbutz and then landed in the UK, where she worked for a French bank in London as an Assistant. She has never looked back ever since and has a real passion for the role. Sandrine currently works for PPS as a Senior Executive Assistant supporting the CEO and Leadership team. She took advantage of lockdown by studying Leadership & Management and getting herself some certifications in Coaching and CBT too, which are subjects she finds fascinating.

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Rachel Elewe

Office Manager & Executive Assistant to the CEO at EACTS

I discovered Strategic PA network after returning from 5 years working abroad in Saudi Arabia. I had spent most of my career in the travel industry and was relatively new to the PA role, so the opportunity to join a network of people in similar job roles so that I could improve my knowledge and skil... I discovered Strategic PA network after returning from 5 years working abroad in Saudi Arabia. I had spent most of my career in the travel industry and was relatively new to the PA role, so the opportunity to join a network of people in similar job roles so that I could improve my knowledge and skills, share experiences and ideas, build relationships and network was one that I could not turn down. Being part of the network has enabled me to grow into the role, provided so many development and learning opportunities, build many new friendships & relationships with like-minded people as well as enjoying some amazing speakers at events hosted by stunning venues. I love being part of the committee -it’s a place to learn, network and grow as an individual and I look forward to what the future holds for the Strategic PA network.

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Ayesha McKinson

Executive Assistant at Cisco I Mental Health First Aider

Ayesha McKinson has over 10 years’ experience as an Assistant and is currently a Personal Assistant at Cisco. She is dedicated to her professional learning and development and always seeking new ways to enhance her skillset. As an active Strategic PA Network Committee Member, she is passiona... Ayesha McKinson has over 10 years’ experience as an Assistant and is currently a Personal Assistant at Cisco. She is dedicated to her professional learning and development and always seeking new ways to enhance her skillset. As an active Strategic PA Network Committee Member, she is passionate about being an Assistant and loves networking and supporting the Assistant Community.

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Karen Harris

Executive Assistant at TechData

I’ve joined the PA network to meet people within similar job roles so we can cross references ideas, share our experiences and support each other along the journey. I also wanted to development myself personally by listening to speakers and learning from seminars from different companies and bu... I’ve joined the PA network to meet people within similar job roles so we can cross references ideas, share our experiences and support each other along the journey. I also wanted to development myself personally by listening to speakers and learning from seminars from different companies and businesses as well as increasing my network of friends and fellow EAs. Being able to view new local venues at the same time is a bonus!

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Winnie King

EA at Mace Group/IPT for HS2 Project | PA Ambassador | BBO PA Network award winner

Prior to 2009 Winnie worked for her local Education Authority with the Early Years Special Education Needs Team. In 2016 Winnie was the PA to the first ever appointed Director General of the House of Commons. Winnie founded and chaired the first Parliamentary Administrative Support Network cre... Prior to 2009 Winnie worked for her local Education Authority with the Early Years Special Education Needs Team. In 2016 Winnie was the PA to the first ever appointed Director General of the House of Commons. Winnie founded and chaired the first Parliamentary Administrative Support Network created in 2017 and was also a committee member of the PA SW1 Network in London. In 2021, Winnie joined forces with Samina Azam and together they created an emotional intelligence series ‘Penny for your Thoughts’ which is now in its second year of monthly held virtual sessions. Winnie is currently working with Mace Group working on the HS2 Team Euston Project.

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Claire Ennion

Virtual Assistant, Whitehouse Lifestyle

Not one person knows everything, by being part of a like minded group of people who can share their experiences and skills is invaluable. It is a fantastic way of meeting individuals with similar skill sets but having knowledge within different sectors. I am very excited to be able to join and... Not one person knows everything, by being part of a like minded group of people who can share their experiences and skills is invaluable. It is a fantastic way of meeting individuals with similar skill sets but having knowledge within different sectors. I am very excited to be able to join and learn from others and share my knowledge also. My background has always been within the IT industry but since setting up as a virtual assistant this has led me down the charity sector as well. I am excited to be able to join this committee and be part of something exciting.

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Ann-Marie Brennand

Executive Assistant at LEGO Group

Ann-Marie is a am a multi-award-winning Assistant, most recently winning the Above & Beyond Strategic PA 2022 Award, PA blogger and mentor (www.positivepa.com). She currently works at the LEGO Group where she supports one of the Digital VPs. She is passionate about learning & development and support... Ann-Marie is a am a multi-award-winning Assistant, most recently winning the Above & Beyond Strategic PA 2022 Award, PA blogger and mentor (www.positivepa.com). She currently works at the LEGO Group where she supports one of the Digital VPs. She is passionate about learning & development and supporting other Business Support Professionals to reach their potential.   In addition to her day-to-day role, she is also a Committee Member of the LEGO Groups internal Assistants Group, arranging training and networking opportunities for their 90+ global assistants.   In August 2022 Ann-Marie become Co-Chair of the LEGO Groups internal Women’s Employee Advocacy Group.

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Michelle Curtis

A seasoned Executive Assistant with a rich professional journey spanning more than a quarter of a century I have honed a comprehensive skill set that encompasses the full spectrum of administrative and organizational tasks. My career has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence, su... A seasoned Executive Assistant with a rich professional journey spanning more than a quarter of a century I have honed a comprehensive skill set that encompasses the full spectrum of administrative and organizational tasks. My career has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence, supporting senior executives with a blend of precision, professionalism, and a proactive approach. I have been the cornerstone of executive support in various industries such as Microsoft, Prudential, Primark and Avnet. My expertise lies in streamlining operations, managing complex schedules, and facilitating strategic communications. I am adept at coordinating high-stakes meetings, orchestrating travel arrangements, and executing projects with meticulous attention to detail. I?m Passionate about empowering leaders to excel, I take pride in being a reliable confidant and strategic partner. My approach is always people-centric, ensuring that every interaction and process is handled with the utmost discretion and diplomacy. I am committed to fostering an environment where productivity and harmony coexist, enabling executives to focus on their core responsibilities and achieve their vision. As I look forward to new challenges and opportunities, I remain dedicated to leveraging my extensive experience to contribute to the success of dynamic teams and visionary leaders. A bit about me? I?m a passionate world traveller who loves to explore new places and cultures. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to inspiring podcasts like Diary of a CEO and various self-help series. Cooking is another one of my passions, especially when it involves trying out healthy recipes that I've never cooked before and savouring the delicious results. I find great joy in being outdoors, whether it's taking long walks during my lunch breaks or enjoying extended strolls on the weekends to clear my mind and reflect. Spending quality time with friends is important to me, as I cherish good conversations and the opportunity to learn something new from each interaction.

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Zoe Hill

Zoe Hill is a seasoned professional with nearly two decades years of experience within the administration industry, coupled with 10 years of leadership experience. For 12 years, Zoe worked at JPMorgan where she held the position of Senior Assistant Supervisor / Senior Executive Assistant. Her tenur... Zoe Hill is a seasoned professional with nearly two decades years of experience within the administration industry, coupled with 10 years of leadership experience. For 12 years, Zoe worked at JPMorgan where she held the position of Senior Assistant Supervisor / Senior Executive Assistant. Her tenure within the company helped to shape her into the dynamic professional she is today honing in on administrative skills, project management skills and people management. Transitioning from the corporate world, Zoe thereafter assumed the role of Chief of Staff at Arcade Media, where she has leveraged her expertise and adapted her corporate ways to navigate the landscape of the social media world. Driven by passion for the admin industry, Zoe has now embarked on her entrepreneur journey and launched Premier Admin Services earlier this year. Through this venture, Zoe looks to provide a platform for empowerment, elevation and inspiration to admin professionals. With a keen focus on networking and collaboration, Zoe aims to cultivate a community where individuals can thrive, learn and innovate together all while supporting small businesses with their admin needs.

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Kelly Stamp

With over 11 years of experience in the tech industry, Kelly has been a pivotal force in driving growth and transformation. Collaborating closely with CEOs, she has been instrumental in scaling a business from ?5 million to over ?100 million and has successfully assisted in revitalising a loss-makin... With over 11 years of experience in the tech industry, Kelly has been a pivotal force in driving growth and transformation. Collaborating closely with CEOs, she has been instrumental in scaling a business from ?5 million to over ?100 million and has successfully assisted in revitalising a loss-making business, transforming it into a profitable venture. Kelly has extensive experience in delivering effective board reporting to Private Equity Investors having worked with 4 different Private Equity Houses. Kelly began her career in finance, and then spent several years in the Executive Assistant role. In this position she focused on identifying and addressing the gaps within the business, particularly during exit processes. She took on various responsibilities to ensure successful deal closures, which significantly contributed to the development of her role. This experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of business operations and strategic execution. One of Kellys key achievements and one she is most proud of was winning the Strategic PA Networks 'Chief of Staff of The Year' in 2023

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Caroline Marshall

Founder of a multi award winning Virtual Assistant Agency, Upsource.

Caroline Marshall is the founder of a multi award winning Virtual Assistant Agency, Upsource. A community of VAs who provide Business, Executive and Virtual Assistance. Including Outsourced PA / EA, operations, financial admin, HR and content services to Entrepreneurs, HNWs, Startups, Scale ups... Caroline Marshall is the founder of a multi award winning Virtual Assistant Agency, Upsource. A community of VAs who provide Business, Executive and Virtual Assistance. Including Outsourced PA / EA, operations, financial admin, HR and content services to Entrepreneurs, HNWs, Startups, Scale ups and SME’s. Having a background in Personal Assistance, Business Support and Events, Caroline transitioned to the Virtual Assistant industry in 2016, firstly as an employed VA, and then ultimately launched her own agency in July 2020. Upsource has seen significant growth since 2020 and Caroline and her tips have been featured in the Metro, Daily Mail, Grazia, Stylist, Waitrose Magazine and The Guardian. Her personal experience of motherhood, the workplace, redundancy, the pandemic, furlough and finding freedom with starting her own business has led her on the path of creating a podcast ‘Bump to Business owner’ to share the stories of other Founders who are also Mothers and ‘how on earth we do it’.

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Helen Rees

Executive Assistant parkrun

Helen has almost 30 years’ experience as an Assistant in the charity & public sectors. Her early career included roles with various Hampshire local authorities, Southern Arts (the regional arts funding body), and the Audit Commission, where she was PA to the Regional Head of Health, supporting NHS... Helen has almost 30 years’ experience as an Assistant in the charity & public sectors. Her early career included roles with various Hampshire local authorities, Southern Arts (the regional arts funding body), and the Audit Commission, where she was PA to the Regional Head of Health, supporting NHS Health Auditors throughout the South. For 11 years, Helen served as PA to the Chief Executive & Board of Trustees at Marwell Wildlife (Marwell Zoo), a conservation charity in Hampshire. It was during this time that Helen founded the South Hampshire PA Network, providing learning, professional development and networking opportunities for Assistants across Hampshire. Something she is keen to reinvigorate again now, through her involvement with Strategic PA Network! During her time at Marwell, Helen was a finalist in the Executive PA of the Year Awards (2015) and won SecsInTheCity’s Social Media PA of the Year Award in the same year. In 2019, Helen went on to become one of 5 winners in the PA Category of WeAreTheCity’s Top 100 Rising Star Awards. In October 2022, Helen was appointed as Executive Assistant to the CEO and Global Board at parkrun, the health & wellbeing charity that provides free, weekly 5k run walk & volunteer events across the UK, and in 22 countries internationally. This role draws on her extensive experience in charity governance and Board support in facilitating a significant period of growth and development for the charity’s Board and international entities. Networking is Helen’s absolute passion, and she is a dedicated advocate for the power of networking to realise opportunities for growth, confidence and career progression. Helen has led singing-for-wellbeing at ES Live conferences since 2016, in London, New Zealand, South Africa and the USA, and has spoken at Assistant conferences in the UK and Europe. Helen is thrilled to join the Strategic PA Network Committee in 2023, having been honoured with a Highly Commended in the PA of the Year category at the network’s 2023 Awards, where her CEO also secured a Highly Commended in the CEO / Leader of the Year category.

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Corinna Henry

Client Support Assistant Full Potential Group

I have been working as an administrative professional for 19 years. I started my career back in 2005 as a Customer Advisor when it was seen as fashionable to work in an office because you got weekends off and went for work drinks! Since 2005 I have worked in various sectors, moving away fr... I have been working as an administrative professional for 19 years. I started my career back in 2005 as a Customer Advisor when it was seen as fashionable to work in an office because you got weekends off and went for work drinks! Since 2005 I have worked in various sectors, moving away from Customer Support into PA/EA work, which felt like a very natural transition. I am currently working as a fully remote EA for the relationship counselling charity, Relate, a charity very close to my heart. When I'm not an EA, I am busy running around after my crazy toddler Zack who is the BEST thing that happened to me! My passion is for all things simple in life, walks in nature, soul chats, yoga, good food and a nice glass of wine or cup of tea, depending on the kind of day I've had! I am very grounded and easy to talk to, that has been really supportive of landing me the jobs that I have had over the years. I can always see a smarter way of doing things and am not afraid to share my ideas and vision with those whom I support.

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Daisy Spragg

Operations Manager FinTech Growth Fund

Prior to becoming the Operations Manager at FinTech Growth Fund, Daisy was the Executive Assistant to the Managing Partners. Daisy graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2022 with a First-Class Honours degree in Law LLB. Prior to becoming the Operations Manager at FinTech Growth Fund, Daisy was the Executive Assistant to the Managing Partners. Daisy graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2022 with a First-Class Honours degree in Law LLB.

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