Caroline Cowan
162 Fitzjohn Avenue,Barnet
Summary
Experienced and versatile professional with over 10 years of success as a self-employed business owner and strong background in customer service, administration, and team-based environments. As the owner of Caroline Cowan Beauty, I have built a loyal client base through exceptional service, strong organisational skills, and effective use of social media marketing. My career also includes valuable roles within the NHS, Royal Mail, Tesco and TSB Bank where I consistently demonstrated reliability, adaptability and commitment to excellence in a front facing customer service environment.
I bring a proven ability to manage workloads efficiently, communicate clearly, and work collaboratively across diverse sectors. Whether supporting public health initiatives, handling high-volume logistics, or delivering frontline customer service, I thrive in fast-paced environments and take pride in building trust-based relationships. My strengths in administration, health and safety compliance, and customer care are complemented by a proactive and professional approach to every role I undertake.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work history
Self Employed Business Owner
Caroline Cowan Beauty
Edinburgh
01.2015 - 05.2026
- Successfully founded and operated Caroline Cowan Beauty since 2015, offering professional beauty therapy services to loyal and growing client base.
- Delivered treatments in clean, safe, and welcoming environment, consistently meeting high standards of hygiene and client care.
- Managed all business operations, including appointment scheduling, financial tracking, and client communications.
- Developed and executed weekly social media campaigns to promote services, share updates, and attract new clients.
- Maintained detailed and logical financial records, ensuring accurate reporting and tax compliance.
- Built strong client relationships through excellent service and consistent communication, resulting in high levels of repeat business.
- Demonstrated resilience and independence in running successful business over sustained period.
- Capable of managing all aspects of small business including marketing, budgeting, stock control, and compliance.
Vaccine Centre Administrator
NHS Lothian
02.2021 - 01.2022
- Played key frontline role in national COVID-19 vaccination programme, ensuring patients were welcomed and supported throughout their visit.
- Delivered professional and compassionate reception service, helping patients feel at ease during critical public health initiative.
- Managed patient flow efficiently, ensuring timely check-ins and minimising delays while maintaining calm and organised environment.
- Utilised telephony systems to contact patients regarding appointment rescheduling, cancellations, and follow-up bookings.
- Maintained accurate records and supported administrative processes to ensure smooth operation of vaccination centre.
- Collaborated closely with clinical and non-clinical teams, demonstrating strong teamwork and communication in high-pressure environment.
- Adhered to strict confidentiality and data protection protocols when handling patient information.
- Contributed to positive and supportive team culture, consistently demonstrating reliability, empathy, and adaptability.
- Responded to patient queries and concerns with professionalism and sensitivity, upholding NHS values and standards.
Picker/Packer
Tesco Distribution Centre
04.2020 - 06.2020
- Accurately picked and packed stock for individual retail stores, ensuring timely and correct order fulfilment in fast-paced warehouse environment.
- Operated handheld scanning devices to track inventory and confirm product selections, maintaining high levels of accuracy and efficiency.
- Adhered strictly to health and safety regulations, including manual handling procedures and hazard reporting protocols.
- Maintained clean and organised workspace, contributing to overall warehouse safety and operational flow.
- Communicated effectively with team members and supervisors to resolve issues and ensure smooth daily operations.
- Demonstrated reliability and attention to detail while meeting performance targets and shift deadlines.
- Reported any stock discrepancies or safety concerns promptly to management, supporting continuous improvement and compliance.
Sorting Office Christmas Temp
Royal Mail
11.2015 - 01.2016
- Supported seasonal increase in mail volume by efficiently sorting Christmas post within main distribution centre.
- Organised mail by postcode area to ensure timely and accurate delivery to customers during high-demand period.
- Worked in fast-paced environment, consistently meeting performance targets while maintaining attention to detail.
- Adhered to all health and safety procedures, including manual handling protocols and workplace safety standards.
- Collaborated closely with team members to ensure smooth workflow and meet daily operational goals.
- Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and strong work ethic during one of busiest times of year.
- Maintained professionalism and focus under pressure, contributing to successful delivery of thousands of items.
Business Banking Call Centre Advisor
TSB Bank
07.2013 - 07.2015
- Delivered exceptional customer service over phone, assisting business banking clients with wide range of financial queries and transactions.
- Represented TSB professionally, ensuring every customer interaction was handled with accuracy, empathy, and efficiency.
- Supported clients in navigating banking services, resolving issues, and completing tasks such as payments, account updates, and product enquiries.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of banking products, services, and promotions to provide informed advice and support.
- Played active role in training and coaching new colleagues, sharing best practices and supporting their development.
- Met performance targets consistently while maintaining high standards of compliance and data protection.
- Demonstrated strong communication and problem-solving skills in fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
Catering Assistant
Primo Catering
07.2011 - 07.2013
- Provided friendly and efficient service to café customers, ensuring high standard of hospitality and customer satisfaction.
- Adhered to food hygiene and safety regulations at all times, maintaining clean and organised food preparation and serving area.
- Monitored stock levels, restocked supplies, and liaised with suppliers to ensure consistent availability of products.
- Supported daily operations including food preparation, serving, cleaning, and cash handling.
- Worked collaboratively with team members to maintain smooth service during busy periods.
- Demonstrated reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic in customer-facing role.
Education
SVQ 2 & 3 - Beauty Therapy
Edinburgh College
EdinburghScottish Standard Grades -
Currie Community High School
EdinburghSkills
- Customer Service Excellence
- Administrative & Organisational Skills
- Communication & Teamwork
- Social Media & Marketing
- Health & Safety Compliance
- Technical Proficiency
- Time Management
- Microsoft Office Tools
- Fitness (running) & Healthy Living
- Beauty & Wellness
- Community & Charity support
Timeline
Vaccine Centre Administrator
NHS Lothian
02.2021 - 01.2022
Picker/Packer
Tesco Distribution Centre
04.2020 - 06.2020
Sorting Office Christmas Temp
Royal Mail
11.2015 - 01.2016
Self Employed Business Owner
Caroline Cowan Beauty
01.2015 - 05.2026
Business Banking Call Centre Advisor
TSB Bank
07.2013 - 07.2015
Catering Assistant
Primo Catering
07.2011 - 07.2013
SVQ 2 & 3 - Beauty Therapy
Edinburgh College
Scottish Standard Grades -
Currie Community High School