James Knowles
Cardiff
Summary
A personable and approachable professional with strong emotional intelligence, demonstrated through extensive experience in customer service and collaborative team environments. Skilled in problem-solving under pressure, with a proactive approach to resolving queries and delivering tailored solutions. Resilient and adaptable, excelling in learning new systems and methods while contributing to positive team dynamics. Dedicated to fostering exceptional customer experiences through effective communication and teamwork.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
4041
4041
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Community engagement officer
Business in Focus
Cardiff
2025.10 - 2026.02
- Facilitated community engagement through approachable communication and active listening.
- Developed connections with clients to foster cooperative relationships.
- Established a welcoming environment for new clients during initial interactions with the company.
- Participated in workshops, job fairs, and local council meetings to enhance community involvement.
- Engaged directly with local businesses to establish a personable rapport with potential clients.
Student Ambassador
Cardiff University
2024.09 - 2025.09
- Represented Cardiff University at open days and visits, taking groups of up to 30 prospective students, parents, and school staff on guided tours of campus facilities.
- Adapted tour content based on audience, ensuring groups were managed safely and professionally around campus.
- Acted as a point of contact, offering information where needed and contributed to a welcoming atmosphere of inclusion.
Bar Staff
The Seagull Hotel, Porthcawl
2023.11 - 2024.01
- Served food and drinks to customers with efficiency, professionalism, and attentiveness.
- Handled card and cash transactions efficiently using a point-of-sale system.
- Maintained a clean and welcoming environment for guests and ensured a warm experience.
Kitchen Assistant
Lotus House, Caerphilly
2021.03 - 2023.07
- Supported general kitchen preparation tasks, maintaining clean workspaces and basic food hygiene standards.
- Peeled, chopped and sliced vegetables as required.
- Unloaded deliveries promptly for immediate storage and use of fresh produce.
- Adhered to health and safety regulations with careful handling of food and equipment.
Team Member
KFC, Nantgarw
2020.07 - 2021.02
- Delivered high-quality and attentive customer service in a fast-paced working environment.
- Worked as part of a close-knit team to meet targets and maintain a high-quality standard.
Education
BA (Hons) - History
Cardiff University
2021.09 - 2025.09
A-Levels - History, Religious Studies, Biology, PE
St. Cenydd Community School
CaerphillyGCSEs -
St. Cenydd Community School
Skills
- Personable and Approachable: Naturally friendly communicator with experience in both one-on-one and group settings
- Emotional Intelligence: Has demonstrated a high level of emotional intelligence throughout their life and career, through caring responsibilities, studies, and work in customer service
- Problem-solving Mindset: Calm under pressure and has a proactive approach to resolving queries or issues
- Collaborative Team Player: Thrives most in collaborative settings, working as part of a team to create a positive and tailored experience for customers
- Resilience and Adaptability: Comfortable and eager in learning new systems and methods, working across different teams and environments
PERSONAL INTERESTS
Outside of work, you will find me in the boxing gym. Boxing has been important in teaching me discipline, focus, and mental resilience, transferable skills I use everyday. Outside of the gym, I also enjoy writing and performing music. I have experience performing both solo and with others in a band, something that’s helped me grow in confidence and creativity, and my ability to engage with a wide range of people. I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring this energy, adaptability, and work ethic to any role, and I’m confident I’d be a valuable and reliable asset to any team given the space to grow.
Languages
English
Fluent
Welsh
Elementary
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Community engagement officer
Business in Focus
2025.10 - 2026.02
Student Ambassador
Cardiff University
2024.09 - 2025.09
Bar Staff
The Seagull Hotel, Porthcawl
2023.11 - 2024.01
BA (Hons) - History
Cardiff University
2021.09 - 2025.09
Kitchen Assistant
Lotus House, Caerphilly
2021.03 - 2023.07
Team Member
KFC, Nantgarw
2020.07 - 2021.02
A-Levels - History, Religious Studies, Biology, PE
St. Cenydd Community School
GCSEs -
St. Cenydd Community School