Samantha Burrough
Enstone,Oxfordshire
Summary
Accomplished professional with expertise in customer relationship management, office administration, and scheduling. Proficient in accounting software and budget oversight, with a strong understanding of GDPR compliance. Skilled in recruitment and hiring, document control systems, and procurement practices. Adept at utilising the Microsoft Office Suite to enhance operational efficiency. Committed to leveraging skills to drive organisational success and seeking opportunities for career advancement in administrative management.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
PA to the Headteacher (role includes School Secretary and Office & Admissions Manager)
Windrush Valley School
Ascott under Wychwood, Oxfordshire
09.2021 - 09.2025
- Streamlined daily administrative tasks, including scheduling and correspondence for Headteacher.
- Coordinated admissions processes, ensuring seamless transitions for new students and families.
- Organised school events and meetings, collaborating with staff for successful execution.
- Maintained accurate student records, adhering to data protection regulations.
- Assisted in financial management, overseeing budgeting and procurement of school resources.
- Delivered exceptional customer service to parents and visitors, enhancing school’s community reputation.
- Developed office procedures that improved operational efficiency across departments.
- Provided IT support to staff, facilitating effective communication and resource access.
Book-Keeper
Ellie Sanderson Bridalwear Ltd
Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
01.2024 - 09.2025
- Ensured strict adherence to daily accounting procedures in high-end retail business.
- Punctually submitted VAT returns, guaranteeing compliance with regulations.
- Resolved accounting queries efficiently, promoting smooth operational flow.
- Leveraged expertise in Xero and booking systems to enhance efficiency.
Office Manager
Flowers Estate Agents
Woodstock, Oxfordshire
07.2013 - 08.2021
- Established business operations from inception in 2013 as Office Manager.
- Facilitated all sales progression, achieving high completion rates and supporting Lettings department.
- Assisted owner in transforming small operation into respected High Street name.
- Collaborated closely with owner to facilitate successful sale of the Rental side of the business.
- Compiled marketing materials, created floor plans, and organised viewings.
- Coordinated with solicitors to ensure timely sales completion and probate instructions.
- Acquired knowledge of GDPR and AML legislation to ensure compliance.
- Managed day-to-day accounting tasks, including P&L production, invoicing, credit control, and VAT reconciliation using Xero.
UK Distributor
Koeka NL
06.2010 - 12.2012
- Secured contract as sole UK distributor for Koeka, a leading Dutch baby and kids' brand.
- Established extensive network of stockists, including HARRODS.
- Introduced luxury brand to UK and Irish markets, increasing brand visibility.
- Developed and maintained comprehensive website with online shopping capabilities.
- Executed marketing strategies through trade and consumer shows, media outreach, and effective store installations.
- Conducted market research, product testing, and managed importation processes.
- Oversaw stock management and distribution logistics to ensure timely deliveries.
Business Owner
DECORATING ANGELS (ANGEL LIVING)
Reading, West Berkshire
07.2004 - 07.2021
- Founded an all-female painting and decorating company, offering full project management to domestic and commercial clients.
- Expanded services to include administration, bookkeeping, and business solutions for local SMEs.
- Managed projects from large-scale developments requiring planning to domestic decorating tasks.
- Oversaw all aspects, including design, procurement of materials, and contractor engagement.
- Balanced project plans and timelines effectively, ensuring successful delivery.
- Established and nurtured relationships with contractors and suppliers for optimal collaboration.
- Directed staff, agents, and contractors to maintain high operational standards.
Travel Service Centre Operations Manager
CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL, London & South
London
10.1994 - 09.2003
- Ascended from Travel Consultant to Branch/Operations Manager over nine years in a global business travel organisation.
- Managed a team of 60 personnel at Heathrow, servicing major clients including BBC, Shell, and IBM.
- Facilitated client and supplier liaison, conducting comprehensive business analysis.
- Oversaw recruitment, development, and performance management of staff using KPI data.
- Created and implemented procedures based on Waterfall evaluations to enhance operations.
- Chaired UK Staff Consultative Committee, introducing methods to improve customer and employee experiences.
- Integrated Corporate Self Booking Tools to streamline booking processes.
- Coordinated high-capacity phone systems and IT infrastructure within the Business Centre.
Office Administrator
UNIGLOBE TOP FLIGHT TRAVEL, Reading
Reading
09.1992 - 08.1994
- Executed daily financial set-up and invoicing processes to ensure accuracy.
- Managed front desk operations, delivering exceptional customer service and support.
- Facilitated effective customer liaison, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly.
- Produced and delivered documents efficiently to meet organisational needs.
Hotel receptionist
THE KINGSWELL HOTEL & RESTAURANT, Harwell
Harwell
08.1988 - 09.1992
- Welcomed guests and facilitated seamless check-in and check-out processes.
- Managed bookings and meetings, maintaining precise records in property management system.
- Addressed inquiries regarding hotel services and local attractions to provide information.
- Acquired essential business skills while contributing to long-running family enterprise.
Education
Higher National Diploma - Management Degree
Guild of Business Travel Companies
London 09.2001 - 07.2003
NVQ Level 1 - Hospitality and Hotel Management Course
Thames Valley University
09.1988 - 06.1989
GCSEs - Maths, Computer Studies, English Lit & Lang, Geography, History, Art & Physics
Didcot Girls School
Didcot, Oxfordshire 09.1986 - 06.1988
Skills
- Customer relationship management & tactful communication
- Office administration & Scheduling expertise
- Accounting software & Budget oversight
- GDPR compliance knowledge
- Recruitment and hiring
- Document control systems
- Procurement practices
- Microsoft Office Suite
Key qualities
- Comprehensive business skills
- Professional, organised and calm under pressure
- Self-motivated and able to work under own direction
- Approachable and flexible with a ‘can do’ attitude
- Resourceful and good decision maker
Travel
My global knowledge is vast having worked in the travel industry and being fortunate to travel to a large number of places for business, pleasure and visiting family around the World.
Timeline
Book-Keeper
Ellie Sanderson Bridalwear Ltd
01.2024 - 09.2025
PA to the Headteacher (role includes School Secretary and Office & Admissions Manager)
Windrush Valley School
09.2021 - 09.2025
Office Manager
Flowers Estate Agents
07.2013 - 08.2021
UK Distributor
Koeka NL
06.2010 - 12.2012
Business Owner
DECORATING ANGELS (ANGEL LIVING)
07.2004 - 07.2021
Higher National Diploma - Management Degree
Guild of Business Travel Companies
09.2001 - 07.2003
Travel Service Centre Operations Manager
CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL, London & South
10.1994 - 09.2003
Office Administrator
UNIGLOBE TOP FLIGHT TRAVEL, Reading
09.1992 - 08.1994
NVQ Level 1 - Hospitality and Hotel Management Course
Thames Valley University
09.1988 - 06.1989
Hotel receptionist
THE KINGSWELL HOTEL & RESTAURANT, Harwell
08.1988 - 09.1992
GCSEs - Maths, Computer Studies, English Lit & Lang, Geography, History, Art & Physics
Didcot Girls School
09.1986 - 06.1988
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