PA Profile: Amanda Redfern EA to CEO, London Market Division, Odyssey Group

PA Life Winter Issue 2024 features Amanda Redfern, EA to Chief Executive, London Market Division, Odyssey Group as our PA Profile…

Amanda has proven to be highly motivated, organised and capable of working to tight deadlines over the past ten years that she’s been in an assistant role. She thrives under pressure, yet maintains a good work/life balance – a prerequisite in the fast-paced global insurance environment she works in. She still finds time to mentor fellow assistants too, both as a PA Life Club Mentor, and also with Lily Shippen recruitment.

What led you to become an Executive Support professional?

I finished university (I did an Organising Live Arts Degree) and it was a challenge to get a job in the recession. I really wanted to go into events at the time, however there was no work. I started my EA journey a different way and ended up doing a secondment as a PA. When I looked at the job description I knew I could do this role and really wanted to get the job. The things I liked about the role were organising, event planning, problem solving, working with an array of different people and having different tasks.

Looking back at when I first started as a PA – it was a great experience. I will always remember how much fun I had during my handover period, the Directors I worked closely with and what I managed to get involved with – it was a steep learning curve, however it was the start of something special.

As well as being a busy EA, you also volunteer as a mentor with two organisations.

What does mentoring give to you and why should other senior assistants consider it?

I love mentoring – it is a chance to help fellow EAs and PAs in this industry. I feel like I am making a difference and giving something back. I think it’s wonderful to see people grow and develop, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to help them with this.

What advice do you have for an Assistant wanting to advance their career e.g. moving from a PA to an EA?

I would have a look at what do you enjoy about your role and what you like doing. Also. I would have a look at what you could add to your experience or learn in your current role – this could help to enhance your CV.

Questions to focus on if you are making a plan and want to invest in yourself:

• What do you like doing vs what you do not feel as confident about?
• What is it about an EA role that interests you?
• What is your current job description vs an EA job description – what is the difference?
• What industry do you want to go into?
• What books are you reading? How are you broadening your network? What podcasts are you listening to? What EA/ PA clubs/ committees are you part of?
• Are you taking on any extra projects?

These questions are just a starting point. Once you have answered these, I would suggest coming up with a plan – this is when the fun starts as you can see how you can progress to the next role.

What makes a great Assistant today?

There is quite a list – being proactive, looking at the broader picture, knowledge of the business, suggesting solutions, coming up with different contingency plans, thinking outside of the box, building a strong rapport with your bosses and team, and other EAs and PAs in your organisation. Also project managing different tasks, aligning your goals to your boss’s priorities, using your network, becoming an extension of your boss – these are just a few things, I could add many more! One video I love and it really resonates with me is Jeremy Burrow’s video – What do assistants do? #AssistantsLEAD – this sums up what a great EA/PA will be doing as their day job!

What’s the future of the Assistant role, especially in a view of fast advancing tech, and how to stay on the top of the game?

The assistant role is becoming more strategic, not just the usual stereotype of a PA or EA role…. I think keep learning, talking to other EAs and PAs in the industry to find out what the trends are, and see how you can use these tools to enhance your role. And don’t let the tech take over your role. I would look into AI and how to utilise this in your role, starting with using and presenting data and social media training.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given and by whom?

I have been given a lot of great advice and have quite a few useful quotes to refer to – here are some of my favourites:

‘Cream always rises to the top’. And’ life is not a dress rehearsal’ – my dad.

‘Kindness doesn’t cost a thing’. ‘Never go to bed angry’ – my mum.

‘Never send an email when you are angry’ – a previous boss.

Do you have any recommendations for other PAs and EAs on career or personal development books or courses?

I would suggest looking at an array of books, not just ones which are focused on PAs and EAs industry. The Leader Assistant – Jeremy Burrows, Staff Matters. The Modern Day Assistant – Lucy Brazier, Executive Assistant Mastery. Maria Fuller and Bonnie Low-Kramen have also written great books on the subject.

What are your favourite things to do and places to visit in London?

When I have time, I love trying new restaurants. I do love being in London – we are so lucky to have so much history and culture on our doorstep. Afternoon tea is a treat, and my favourite so far is Fortnum and Mason.

Where do you most like to send your execs for a business lunch or dinner in London?

I book an array of different restaurants – highlights for me: Kerridge’s, any food with Rhubarb Hospitality, Nobu Shoreditch, Smith and Wollensky, the Wolseley City, Café Murano, and many others.

Favourite hotels to book for your Execs and visitors?

Favourite hotels: the Exclusive Group, the Iconic Group, the Berkeley, Claridge’s, Corinthia, Coworth Park, to name a few!

You can connect with Amanda on LinkedIn.

You can read more PA Life PA Profile interviews here.