We are proud to announce the release of Season 2 of The PA Podcast.
After the success of Season 1, released in 2019, where we interviewed a number of senior PAs across various industry sectors, there was clearly a demand for an honest and open discussion about the PA career and what it is actually like working in one sector vs another.
We also interviewed travelling and celebrity assistants who were able to give listeners a realistic understanding of the demands of these roles, which often hold such appeal.
Season 2 Focuses on Employers and PA Career Progression
In season 2, hosted again by Olivia Coughtrie, one of our Founders, we decided to change the focus from the PA to the employer and turn the conversation around to what it is they look for when hiring, as well as understanding what PAs have gone on to do within different sectors.
By speaking to a number of senior professionals, we have had fascinating conversations to allow the listener to gain a deeper understanding of that area in business and explore whether it may be of interest to them.
At Oriel Partners, we put a significant focus on working with our candidates for the long term, even when they are not actively looking for a new role. Season 2 provides unique insights into some of our clients, helps to highlight opportunities and guides listeners on what a hiring and onboarding process can involve.
In addition, we explore what our clients look for when interviewing candidates, the responsibilities of the PA role, and potential longer-term opportunities.
We are firm believers that knowledge is power, so we hope you enjoy listening to this season!
Episode 1: Dr Claire Huck, Chief of Staff at Cervest
Claire is a Climate Change expert with ten years of research experience. Currently responsible for managing all business administration at Cervest, which provides climate intelligence services, Claire heads up the CEO's office. Claire gives us a fascinating insight into a relatively new sector and also discusses the challenges and benefits of making a career change and transitioning from academia into a support role.
Episode 2: Sam Boon, Recruitment and Talent Manager at Odgers Berndtson
Sam is a lady we know very well and have had the pleasure of working with for many years. Odgers Berndtson is one of the world’s leading Global Executive Search firms, working with senior leaders across all industry sectors. Their head office is on Cannon Street in London, and they have many EAs who are integral to the business.
Episode 3: Tess Page-Ratcliff, Founder of Tess Isabella Lifestyle
We have worked with Tess as both a client and a candidate. In this episode, she discusses her career path, from working as Executive Assistant to Jo Malone CBE, Founder of Jo Loves, the fragrance brand, to setting up her own lifestyle company, Tess Isabella Lifestyle.
Episode 4: Sabinder Robinson-Sandhu, Director of Operations at Avamore Capital
Sabinder has been at Avamore Capital for 6 years and has progressed from working in Marketing to becoming Director of Operations. Sabinder discusses what it is like working in the financial services sector, tips for candidates and advice if you are starting your career.
Episode 5: Amanda Chilcott, Group HR Director at Neptune Energy
It was a real pleasure speaking to Amanda, who has had a fascinating career in HR. Amanda has worked for brands such as Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, and BP, and for the last 5 years, she has been at oil and gas firm Neptune Energy. Based near to the Oriel Partners office in Victoria, Amanda has very helpful advice, including how to succeed working from home and what makes the PAs in her sector so successful.
Episode 6: Jason Tarry, CEO of Tesco
Anyone who shops at Tesco will know his name and have received emails from him! Jason has been with Tesco since 1990 when he joined their graduate recruitment programme. He has held several senior positions in the UK and internationally, including CEO of the clothing brand and Chief Product Officer. For the last 6 years, he has been CEO. This episode gives us an insight into life as a CEO and what that really entails. Jason also discusses the special relationship he has with his PA and the value she brings to his daily life.
