Assistant to the Director – An insight to our new vacancy
Now hiring from 1st February 2022
I first saw the application for Biddle & Webb’s Assistant to the Director role in late 2020. The country was in the midst of entering the third national lockdown and there I was: a recent MSc graduate looking for a company to give me a chance to develop on my existing skills while providing the resources to expose me to new experiences to build on my professional development. The assistant to the director role enticed me as it would give me the opportunity to work in an area that I had never experienced before and allow me to develop skill essential for my future.
After applying, I received an opportunity to interview not long after where I was able to visit Biddle & Webb and meet the staff and directors. It was a wonderful experience being able to walk around the building and see what it is Biddle & Webb do. I could really see myself working there, so imagine my excitement when I got the offer!
Being hired during a lockdown was quite an experience, but the directors and staff were friendly and welcoming, with support given to me on Microsoft Teams as I learned new platforms and operations from home. It was such a thrill to manage the directors’ diaries, communicating with solicitors for probate valuations, and educating the public on our services. I was also able to learn new skills relating to content creation for social media, promoting the business on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, as well as, learning the components it takes to plan and execute external valuation events around Birmingham.
Not only did I learn essential administration and diary management skills for future roles, but it was also an invaluable experience to collaborate with colleagues who had extensive knowledge in their field. Whether that be talking with our director about art and pictures, to chatting with our jewellery and silver specialist about beautiful jewellery, or admiring hand carved chairs or Georgian bureaus with our senior valuer. I also cannot forget to mention the wonderful colleagues I regularly interacted with, from long-time staff who knew all the answers to any questions I had, to the friendly staff who manage the commercial auctions, and finally to the curious university students that make up the catalogue and social media marketing teams.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience here and am very appreciative of the experience and skills gained during my time here. Looking ahead, I am pleased to have been offered a position as part of the University of Birmingham’s Healthcare Technologies Institute. I am lucky that Biddle & Webb has supported my passions and given me well wishes for my future endeavours.
With my leaving, the team are now looking for my replacement! Be sure not to miss the opportunity to be apart of this company and support the business they do. If you have a curious mind, willingness to learn, and initiative and drive to take on any challenge, be sure to apply!
Send your CV and cover letter outlining your skills and experiences to Jeremy Thornton at jeremy.thornton@biddleandwebb.com.
Deadline for applications is 9th February 2022 by midday.
Carissa Pausanos