Ava Holmes
Linkedin.com/in/avaholmes
Summary
Motivated and detail-oriented Management student at the University of St Andrews with a strong interest in finance and marketing. Experienced in leadership, customer service, and team management through roles such as Class Representative, Young Enterprise project manager and Guest Ambassador for Caledonian Sleeper. Skilled in problem-solving, effective communication, and performing under pressure, with a passion for applying analytical thinking to real-world challenges.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Guest Ambassador
Caledonian Sleeper
06.2023 - 09.2024
- Gained full-time experience in a fast-paced environment over two summers
- Developed strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure during train disruptions and challenging customer interactions.
- Demonstrated the ability to think and adapt quickly when addressing customer inquiries and resolving issues, requiring extensive knowledge and prompt written communication.
- Enhanced communication skills by addressing diverse customer concerns and feedback effectively.
- Motivated by customer-focused experiences to run for class representative, demonstrating a commitment to helping others and addressing feedback.
- Developed proficiency in various software applications, including Excel, Database, Teams, and Outlook.
Customer Advisor
Boots
08.2021 - 04.2023
- Delivered exceptional customer service, handled transactions accurately, and resolved customer inquiries efficiently
- Showcased excellent communication skills while working with a diverse customer base
- Provided expert guidance and recommendations to customers based on product knowledge
- Actively participated in stock control measures, including inventory checks, replenishment, and maintaining visual merchandising standards
- Developed strong organisational and multitasking abilities to thrive in a fast-paced retail environment
Consultant
Clinique
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Provided exceptional customer service by actively listening to customers' skincare concerns and goals, and offering personalised recommendations
- Conducted comprehensive skin consultations, analysed individual skin types, and provided tailored skincare regimens
- Participated in training sessions and product knowledge seminars to stay up to date with industry trends and product innovations
Education
Management MA (Honours) - Management
University of St Andrews
06-2026
Highers - Achieved: 7 As, 1 B
Millburn Academy
01.2022
Skills
- Exceptional communication - verbal and written
- Strong interpersonal skills and customer service
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving skills
- Reliability
- Calm and professional under pressure
- Complaint handling
- Proficient in Microsoft packages such as Excel and Word
- Basic accounting
- Multitasking Abilities
Experiences
- Currently standing and elected as the University's Third Year School of Management Class Representative - adapted interpersonal and organisational skills to support and represent my peers effectively.
- Conducted and analysed feedback from classmates, summarising results for discussions with staff and organising meetings with module coordinators, demonstrating strong time management and organisational skills.
- Appointed project manager for my school's Young Enterprise programme, where I led the development of ideas, conducted research, and presented pitches to investors. This role enhanced my ability to think on my feet, perform under pressure, and strengthened skills in teamwork, delegation, and delivering effective presentations.
- Attended an Insights programme with RBC Brewin Dolphin over two days, where I explored various areas of the business and gained insights into the roles within their finance departments. The programme included investments, portfolio management, and client advising workshops, providing a comprehensive financial services industry overview.
- Participated in the Future Assets Competition, where I collaborated on developing investment strategies and analysing market trends, enhancing my analytical skills and understanding of asset management.
- Cultivated independence, leadership, and teamwork skills as a Business Prefect.
- Engaged in the school drama club, enhancing my confidence, collaboration, and adaptability skills.
- Balanced full-time studies with work, developing time management, resilience, and multitasking skills.
References
- Mark Lonie, Guest Service Centre Manager at Caledonian Sleeper, 07890940202, mark.lonie1@caledoniansleeper.scot
- Lhea Anderson, Clinique manager, 07967243216, lhea@hotmail.co.uk
- Alison Winter, Boots store manager, 01463 225167
Timeline
Guest Ambassador
Caledonian Sleeper
06.2023 - 09.2024
Customer Advisor
Boots
08.2021 - 04.2023
Consultant
Clinique
01.2021 - 01.2022
Management MA (Honours) - Management
University of St Andrews
Highers - Achieved: 7 As, 1 B
Millburn Academy
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