Meet Hannah: From Childcare to Client Success

 

“I’m Hannah, an Executive Account Manager, and I’ve been with Affinity Workforce for 1.5 years, working closely with Lime Academy Trust,” Hannah shares. What does an Account Manager actually do? “I support a multi-academy trust with all their temporary staffing needs – TAs, teachers, cleaners, chefs, business managers, the list goes on! This includes everything from daily sickness cover to longer-term vacancies. I fill every booking, either with our own staff or by liaising with other agencies to find the best fit.” 

 

Before Affinity Workforce, Hannah brought a wealth of experience. “I was a recruitment consultant at another education agency for two years,” she explains. “Prior to that, I worked in childcare as a nanny and nursery practitioner for seven years, and I have a degree in Early Years Education.” This background gives her a unique understanding of the schools she supports. 

Fast-Paced Mornings and Strategic Afternoons

 

Hannah’s mornings are a whirlwind. “From 7-10 am, it’s all about urgent bookings,” she says. “Lime Academy is very busy, so I’m replying to messages, taking sickness calls, booking short-term cover, and sending confirmations. It’s a busy period!” Her top priority is always “bookings for sickness calls that have come into the schools.” 

 

Once the immediate rush subsides, her day shifts. “From 10 am to 12 pm, I catch up with colleagues, have morning meetings to discuss goals, and go through non-urgent bookings for the coming weeks. I also reply to queries and ring candidates for pre-screens.” 

 

As the day progresses, Hannah’s afternoons are filled with strategic activities. “I conduct interviews with new potential candidates, catch up with candidates about their availability, and meet with my suppliers to build relationships,” she explains. “I also get back to schools about booking queries and ensure all my admin is up to date.” 

 

Managing a demanding workload requires clear strategy. “I write lists to prioritise tasks and set realistic expectations with myself and third parties about when I’ll get back to them,” Hannah emphasises. “I use my diary for reminders or block out ‘non-contact time’ to meet deadlines. It’s crucial to be honest and not take on more than I can finish.” 

 

Regular team meetings are also key. “We have morning meetings on Monday and Wednesday to align on important tasks for the week and set goals, like how many new candidates we want to find or bookings we want to achieve.” 

 

Overcoming Challenges and Thriving with Team Support

 

“It’s busy!” Hannah admits when asked about common challenges. “You have to be kind to yourself and set plans and expectations. Don’t stress about what you can’t change and ask for support when needed. Schools and suppliers can be demanding, so it’s important to set boundaries.” 

 

The Affinity Workforce Recruitment Team provides invaluable support. “Management is always there to listen and guide you,” Hannah affirms. “No question is silly. Senior team members are also available if a manager is in meetings.” Hannah appreciated that her prior experience allowed her to quickly get up to speed. “New starters now get a mentor who guides them, alongside their manager providing on-the-job training.” 

 

When asked about her favourite thing about working with colleagues, Hannah’s enthusiasm shines: “Everyone is always on your team! We all want the best for each other, and there’s nothing but support. We celebrate wins and equally support each other when someone is stressed, helping them get back on track.” The Affinity Workforce Recruitment Team fosters community through “weekly Wellbeing Wednesdays to get us away from our desks, support sessions with senior team members, and activities and rewards for our achievements.” 

Impact, Rewards, and Why You Should Join

 

The most rewarding aspect of Hannah’s role is knowing the positive impact she makes. “It’s knowing my schools are being supported in the best way, with the best candidates, and that the children have everything they need to thrive,” she beams. 

 

Hannah has experienced significant professional growth. “I’ve achieved a promotion for the level of service I give my schools,” she proudly states. “I also received a ‘star performer’ award at last year’s conference after only six months, showing senior leadership recognized my efforts.” 

 

Why recommend joining the Affinity Workforce Recruitment Team? “It’s the most supportive team I’ve worked in. Having senior leadership so available helps you settle in and ensures your hard work is recognised,” Hannah explains. “Having previous recruitment experience, I much prefer the wider relationship-building you achieve as an Account Manager here.” 

 

Hannah’s final advice: “Do it! It’s a busy job, requiring planning and preparation, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Building relationships from Head Teachers to the CEO of the trust, and knowing your hard work directly impacts young children’s lives, is truly fulfilling.” 

Inspired by Hannah’s story? Ready to build impactful relationships in the education sector? Find out more here

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