27/04/2023 - Employee case studies
Catherine Jones
Catherine Jones joined Clearwater International more than nine years ago as an apprentice, and was promoted in 2022 to Office Manager in Manchester. Below Catherine discusses her experience working for Clearwater and how she has developed within her role to her current position.
How did you get involved with an apprenticeship at Clearwater International?
Wanting to go straight into employment after leaving college, I started searching for apprenticeships in office administration and came across The Apprentice Academy in Manchester. After enrolling with them, they offered CV and interview workshops which led to a successful interview with Clearwater.
What did you like about the apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship enabled me to kickstart my career within a fantastic company, all the while gaining a relevant qualification. I enjoyed the regular training sessions at the academy and the variety of skills they taught me, which I’m still using today.
How has Clearwater International supported you throughout your time here?
Since starting my career at Clearwater International, I have had constant mentorship and coaching from my colleagues, including my fellow support team members and my company sponsor. I have had various opportunities to undertake training and development to help me progress in my role, such as the ‘Level 3 Executive Presence and Partnering’ course that I completed earlier this year. I also attended the ‘Endorsed PA’ two-day course in London.
How has your role(s) evolved throughout your nine years at the business?
After completing my apprenticeship in 2014, I became a full-time Office and Finance Administrator for over four years. I was then promoted to Junior PA in 2019, then Personal Assistant six months later – a role I have always wanted. This was my role for just over three years before being given the opportunity to step up to Office Manager and PA. Throughout this time, I have worked with many colleagues including Partners and Directors. Now being Office Manager, I am delighted to work with the UK CEO and wider Manchester Team.
What advice would you have to anyone thinking of joining the Clearwater International Support team?
When joining our team, be sure to throw yourself into the role and learn as much as you can about how the business works. I would also recommend getting to know as many colleagues as possible and networking; not just internally but externally too at the various PA events within Manchester. Finally, I would say it’s always a good thing to be as prepared and organised as possible as no two days are the same.
Since joining the team, Catherine’s dedication has been highlighted at several recognised awards, including the Apprentice Star Award in 2015, as well as being shortlisted at the Manchester PA Awards as a Rising Star in 2019.
Catherine Jones, Office Manager, Clearwater International said:
“I’ve worked at Clearwater for almost nine years and can happily say that it’s a very rewarding and inspiring place to work. I’ve progressed well here since starting as an apprentice administrator, to now being office manager in the Manchester office. I have been given so many exciting opportunities along the way and look forward to celebrating many more.”
Mark Taylor, UK CEO, Clearwater International commented:
“Our administrative professionals are an integral part of the Clearwater International team with their contribution ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the business. Catherine has made great progress since joining the firm nearly 10 years ago, demonstrating both commitment and dedication to her role.”
