Jonathan Taddese

Finance Assistant – Angela Shanley Associates (ASA), London.

At ASA, a hotel and travel agency operating across the UK, Ireland, and France, I worked full-time in the finance department, gaining hands-on experience with Tour plan, a planning and finance management software used to handle FITs, groups, and accounting processes.

Key responsibilities included:

• Managing invoices, and over 5 calls that would have to be resolved through analysing and solving the issue with the team
• Creditor payments, and financial transactions (sales, purchases, and cash).
• Preparing and organising financial documents and Excel reports to track banking and company performance.
• Handling refunds and responding to hotel partners' queries via phone, developing clear and professional communication skills.

Working closely with my manager and CEO in a collaborative, non-micromanaged environment encouraged proactivity, accuracy, and initiative—qualities that align well with demands of legal work. I also took part in financial meetings, gaining insight into strategic decision-making and understanding the corporate environment

During the time working at NEXT, I developed crucial skills in customer service, time management, and relationship building, which made me a trusted and approachable member of the team. I consistently delivered exceptional service while maintaining high standards of organisation and efficiency in a fast-paced retail environment. Building a close working relationship with the store manager, Nick, provided me with valuable insights into the behind-the-scenes operations of the store, as well as the importance of professionalism in customer service. Nick's guidance taught me how to maintain a polite, orderly demeanour when interacting with customers, ensuring that their needs were met with respect and attentiveness. I also gained hands-on experience in the logistics of retail, including stock loading and inventory management, which enhanced my understanding of operational processes and reinforced the significance of attention to detail and organisation in a fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities and achievements:

• Customer Relations & Problem Resolution: I was responsible for resolving customer complaints with tact and professionalism, ensuring satisfaction and fostering repeat business. My ability to listen attentively and resolve issues quickly made me approachable to customers, building trust and rapport.
• Promotional Display Management: Participated in seasonal sale preparations by strategically arranging promotional displays, ensuring that products were presented attractively to boost sales and customer interest. This demonstrated my ability to manage time effectively while balancing customer service with operational tasks.
• E-commerce Service Support: Processed online orders accurately and promptly, ensuring smooth transactions and timely delivery. My attention to detail and organisational skills were key in meeting deadlines and improving the overall e-commerce experience.
• Product Knowledge & Customer Engagement: Stayed updated on current promotions and new products, which allowed me to provide customers with accurate and timely information, enhancing their shopping experience. My proactive approach helped to ensure customers felt confident in their purchases and appreciated the personalised attention.

This role required me to prioritise tasks efficiently, manage my time to meet tight deadlines, and maintain a customer-focused attitude at all times. By building strong relationships with customers and being disciplined in managing my time, I became a reliable and approachable team member, fostering positive experiences for both customers and colleagues.

In my role at a prestigious 5-star hotel the NICI, I was entrusted with ensuring an exceptional guest experience while carrying out daily operations with a high degree of professionalism and attention to detail.

Key responsibilities and achievements:

• Efficient Task Management: Consistently carried out day-to-day duties with precision and efficiency, ensuring smooth operations in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.
• Adaptability & Quick Learning: Rapidly acquired and applied new skills to enhance daily tasks, contributing to improved operational efficiency and overall guest satisfaction.
• Deadline-Oriented Execution: Successfully met tight deadlines and handled high-pressure situations, ensuring timely and accurate completion of tasks.
• Professionalism & Client Engagement: Demonstrated respect, professionalism, and a friendly demeanour, building strong rapport with guests and ensuring their needs were met with attention to detail. Frequently collaborated with colleagues across departments to ensure seamless service delivery.

This experience enhanced my problem-solving, time management, and communication skills, which are critical in any fast-paced, client-facing setting, especially in the legal sector. I developed a keen ability to handle complex tasks with poise and deliver results under pressure, all while maintaining a high level of professionalism and courtesy.

In my role as a Bar Associate at a busy, high-volume establishment, the Durley Dean, I developed key skills in managing multiple responsibilities, maintaining organisation, and working effectively under pressure—skills that are highly transferable to a fast-paced, deadline-driven legal environment.

Key achievements and skills:

• Accurate Payment Processing & Financial Integrity: I processed payments with precision, reducing discrepancies at the end of each shift, demonstrating my attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accuracy—traits essential when dealing with legal documents, financial records, or client billing in a law firm.
• Efficient Resource Management & Organization: Managed stock levels efficiently to prevent shortages during peak hours, demonstrating my ability to plan ahead, stay organized, and prioritize tasks effectively—skills that are directly applicable when managing legal files or preparing materials for meetings and hearings.
• Preparation & Proactive Readiness: Ensured the bar was fully prepared with glasses, garnishes, ice, and other essentials before opening hours, minimizing disruptions during service.
• Client Relations & Communication: Built strong rapport with regular patrons, fostering loyalty and positive relationships. Being able to communicate and create relations with anyone regardless of whom they may be. These interpersonal communication skills translate into building lasting client relationships and effectively collaborating with colleagues.
• Maintaining Order Under Pressure: Consistently maintained a clean and organised bar while handling high customer demand. My ability to stay composed and maintain high standards under pressure is crucial in legal environments where managing deadlines, complex tasks, and high-stakes situations is common.

Overall, my bar experience honed my ability to perform under pressure, prioritise effectively, and maintain a high level of professionalism—skills that are invaluable in a legal career where precision, efficiency, and client relations are key.

Motivated by the impact of the pandemic and its toll on mental health, I voluntarily signed up to fundraise for Rehab for Life, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. Through their donations, the charity supports food banks and provides essential supplies to the homeless and mentally ill, particularly in the Aldgate East area.

Key responsibilities and achievements:

• Led fundraising campaigns across multiple London locations, distributing leaflets and raising awareness of the charity’s mission.
• Developed risk management, issue, and crisis plans, ensuring the charity maintained a positive public image and remained a top choice for donations in a competitive space.
• Fundraised £450 during the time with the charity, directly contributing to weekly donations that supported vulnerable communities.

This role emphasised the importance of sociability, communication, and awareness campaigns in achieving successful fundraising. The satisfaction of seeing the tangible impact of our donations on the community reinforced the value of being proactive and purposeful in all endeavors mental health.

I worked at Waitrose and partners for 3 months where I would stock shelves and scan items for customers. I done this part time and had to develop the discipline in managing my time at school and work. I also engaged in interaction with customers which gave me the chance to communicate and be as efficient as possible at multitasking.

I had also

• Listened to customer needs and preferences to provide targeted advice, increasing sales opportunities.
• Operated cash registers with accuracy and processed cash and card transactions.
• Improved customer retention by delivering tailored and genuine service.

At 15, I had the opportunity to work in Ofcom’s IT Regulation Department, gaining insight into the regulatory framework overseeing broadcasting networks and managing complaints. I collaborated closely with IT Manager and participated in virtual team meetings, where I learned how regulatory decisions were made collectively, often involving senior management teams from various Ofcom locations.

Key responsibilities and achievements:

• Maintained and analysed Excel spreadsheets for internal data tracking and calculations, developing strong attention to detail and technical proficiency.
• Created reception banners, which improved the office environment and contributed to the organisation’s professionalism.
• In my final week, my team and I delivered a presentation to Ofcom CEO Sharon White and senior team members, showcasing our work and lessons learned. This experience honed my public speaking, improvisation, and communication skills, as we presented our findings to a high-level audience.

This experience provided me with valuable insights into corporate work environments, as well as the importance of preparation, teamwork, and effective communication.

Primary School Teaching Assistant – Camelot Primary School (Peckham)

At age of 14, I had the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant at Camelot Primary School in Peckham. This role allowed me to interact with children across all year groups, from Reception through to Year 6, providing me with a diverse and rewarding experience that shaped my strong work ethic and motivation from an early age.

Key responsibilities and achievements:

• Assisting with Classroom Activities: Supported teachers in delivering lessons, helping students with their individual learning needs, and ensuring they understood the material. I assisted in both group and one-on-one settings, which allowed me to foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment for children.
• Behaviour Management & Emotional Support: Worked closely with students to help them with behavioural challenges, offering guidance and support when needed. This role strengthened my communication and conflict resolution skills as I worked with children from different backgrounds, some of whom faced personal or emotional challenges.
• Providing Individualised Learning Support: Tailored assistance to students who required additional help, helping them stay on track with their studies and encouraging a positive approach to learning. I became deeply involved in motivating children to believe in their abilities, even when they faced difficulties in their studies.
• Increased Social Awareness: Many of the students came from less privileged backgrounds in Peckham, which gave me a unique perspective on the challenges they faced. Witnessing the resilience of these children and their determination to succeed despite the odds deeply impacted me. It instilled in me a sense of purpose and reinforced my desire to contribute positively to my community.

This experience at Jim Robinson Primary School not only motivated me to pursue roles with meaning but also provided invaluable insights into the importance of education, empathy, and community support. It was during this time that I first learned the significance of motivation and how it can drive personal and professional growth. Working with children who faced numerous challenges, yet still maintained a positive outlook and determination, taught me how to persevere, be resourceful, and, most importantly, how to give back to those who may need guidance or support.

This role laid the foundation for my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to improving the lives of others—traits that have continued to shape my professional journey.