Experienced professionals are choosing franchising over traditional careers. How much does the current employment market for EA, PA and Office Manager roles influence the move to start up on your own as a VA? PA Life hears from Lisa Keefe, a former legal department head, who’s joined a growing franchise network as demand for flexible careers and fractional support continues to rise…
Lisa headed a legal department with close to 30 years of experience in the profession before deciding to change her career. She discusses her decision and why growing number of experienced professionals seek greater flexibility, autonomy and work-life balance through franchise ownership.
Her move comes at a time when businesses are increasingly turning to flexible, outsourced support models while professionals seek careers that offer greater freedom and control over how they work.
Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur Suzy Sanders – a PA Life Star Awards judge – Alchemy VA has grown from a solo virtual assistant business into a national franchise network supporting organisations across the UK. This year marks the company’s tenth anniversary, with the business continuing to attract experienced professionals looking to leverage their skills in a more flexible environment.
What made her leave it all and join a virtual assistance franchise?
For Lisa, the decision followed a long and successful legal career that began as a receptionist at a magistrates’ court before progressing into senior leadership roles within law firms.
“I’ve always been ambitious and committed to progressing my career,” said Lisa. “I spent almost a decade studying alongside full-time work to gain my legal qualifications and I loved helping clients navigate important moments in their lives. However, after many years in the profession, I found myself thinking more about what I wanted the next chapter of my career to look like.”
Like many professionals, Lisa was reassessing her priorities
“The flexibility was a huge factor for me,” she explained. “I wanted more autonomy, more balance and the opportunity to build something for myself while still using all the skills and experience I’d developed over the years.”
Her story reflects a wider shift taking place across both the employment and franchise sectors.
According to Alchemy VA founder Suzy Sanders, more professionals are questioning traditional career paths and recognising the opportunities presented by flexible business ownership.
“We’re seeing increasing interest from people with significant professional experience who no longer want their careers to come at the expense of their wellbeing, family life or personal ambitions,” said Suzy.
“At the same time, businesses are becoming much more comfortable with fractional support models. They want access to experienced, professional support without the overheads and commitments associated with hiring additional employees.”
Building your own business with a support network: a key benefit of franchises
Alchemy VA’s model combines the flexibility of self-employment with the support structure of an established franchise network, providing franchise partners with training, mentoring, systems and ongoing business support.
For Lisa, that support was a key factor in her decision.
“I’d explored virtual assistance before but didn’t want to feel like I was completely on my own,” she said. “Alchemy gave me the confidence that I could build my own business while still having access to guidance, expertise and a supportive community. It genuinely felt like the best of both worlds.”
From July, Lisa will provide services including document review and formatting, proofreading, research, report writing, client onboarding and business administration support. Drawing on her extensive legal background, she has particular expertise in managing complex documentation, client communications and administrative processes.
Her appointment comes as Alchemy VA continues to expand its UK network through carefully selected franchise partners.
While many franchise brands focus on rapid growth, Sanders says Alchemy’s approach has always centred on sustainable expansion and long-term success.
“We’ve never been interested in growth for growth’s sake,” she said. “Our focus has always been on attracting the right people and helping them build businesses that genuinely work for their lives. Lisa is a fantastic example of that. She brings a huge amount of professional experience, empathy and expertise, and we’re delighted to welcome her to the network.”
Looking ahead, Lisa is excited about building a business that aligns with both her professional strengths and personal priorities.
“It’s about creating a career that fits around life rather than the other way around,” she said. “I know there are lots of businesses that need support but don’t necessarily need a full-time employee. Being able to help those businesses while creating the lifestyle I want for myself feels like the perfect next step.”
For more information about Alchemy Virtual Assistance, their services, or franchise opportunities, visit www.alchemyva.co.uk or contact Lisa directly at lisa.keefe@alchemyva.co.uk
