A behind-the-scenes look at the way I support your business with calm, clarity and care.
People often ask what it’s like to work with a Virtual Assistant. The truth is, it’s not just about what gets done – it’s about how it gets done.
When you work with me, you get the benefit of all the skills and experience, I have built up over my career so far. After studying Business Studies at Bournemouth University with a focus on marketing, and gaining a Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). My first permanent role was in IT Support at GMAC/Vauxhall Finance, followed by an Analyst/Programmer position at Abbey National, where I gained extensive training and was later promoted to a Team Leader.
With Santander’s takeover, I transitioned into business analysis, process improvement, and procurement roles, eventually managing both Accounts Payable and Procurement Admin teams. After redundancy, I set up my own business, Oyster Flame, and obtained PRINCE2 project management certification.
I started consultancy work by implementing procure-to-pay systems for Home Retail Group, before taking maternity leave. During this time, I volunteered as the Marketing & Communications Advisor for Girlguiding Bedfordshire, gaining skills in social media and updating and putting my marketing skills into practice. Upon returning to work, I expanded my business through networking, leading to my career as a Virtual Assistant.
But that’s just what I can DO (my skillset and experience). But what about how I might BE to work with? What am I like as a person, what are my qualities as an individual? Here are a few qualities, I think I have …. I am ….. conscientious, efficient, enthusiastic, friendly, helpful, humorous, kind, organised, productive, reliable and self-disciplined.
At Oyster Flame, I bring a combination of calm, order, and practicality to the table – with a genuine desire to make life easier for the people I work with. I support small business owners, teams, and non-profits with everything from CRM systems and email lists to data analysis and processes. But behind every task is a way of working that clients tell me makes all the difference.
So here’s a little insight into what it’s really like to work with me – and how I help turn chaos into clarity.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by messy spreadsheets, outdated processes or a to-do list that never ends – you’re not alone. That’s often where people are when they first come to me. And my job? To bring the calm.
I genuinely enjoy tidying up messy data, sorting through disorganised systems, and creating smoother processes. One client recently described me as “a breath of fresh air with a spreadsheet” – and I’ll absolutely take that!
Take my Spreadsheet Spring Clean service, for example. I worked with Sarah to sort out a tangled client spreadsheet and simplify her data to prepare it to upload into her new CRM system – not just so it looked neater, but so it worked better. We uncovered hidden issues, cleaned things up, and built something that actually supported the way she runs her business. That’s the kind of practical transformation I love being part of.
I’ve always had a logical brain and a love for efficiency. That means I don’t just do what’s on the list – I often spot the patterns, systems, and missed opportunities that can make your business run more smoothly.
Earlier this year, I prepared a professional framework for a meeting with the Finance & HR Director at Active Luton, focused on data retention and compliance. It included supporting documents, a structured presentation, and clear recommendations – all designed to support decision-making and efficiency.
It’s the kind of work I thrive on: process-led, strategic, and quietly powerful in how much time and headspace it can save.
Every client is different, and I never assume that what worked for one business will automatically work for another. That’s why I always start with a conversation. I put on my varying hats, initially my deer stalker, and act as a bit of a Sherlock Holmes, then switch to my miner’s helmet, and start digging. I want to understand what’s frustrating you, what’s being delayed, what’s falling between the cracks – because often the real issue is hiding just beneath the surface.
When you work with Oyster Flame, you work directly with me. There’s no outsourcing, no hand-offs. I get to know your business inside-out – how you like to work, what you’re juggling, and what you need from me to make life a bit easier.
Whether I’m helping a client prepare for a networking event, managing email sequences behind the scenes, or helping a garage keep its online presence in shape, I care deeply about making things better – not just getting things done. That continuity and care is something I know my clients value.
Running a business isn’t always easy. I completely understand that there are days when you feel on top of everything… and days when you’re buried in admin and can’t see the wood for the trees.
That’s where I come in. I’ll gently nudge when needed, offer solutions that ease the load, and keep things moving even when your energy dips. I genuinely want your business to do well – not just so I can tick off a job, but because I care about the people I work with.
Working with me means:
If that sounds like the kind of support you need in your business, I’d love to chat. I offer a free 30-minute consultation so you can share where things feel messy – and I’ll help you see a way forward. No jargon, no overwhelm – just friendly, focused support.
Email me or book a call – I’d love to hear from you.