Ashleigh Taylor – Branch Manager- London

Name: Ashleigh Taylor. 
Age: 30 years old. 
Job title: Branch Manager - London Office. 
How long have I been with Aquinas? -  2 years. 

How did I become a consultant?

I have a background working with SEN through agency. During the pandemic, I decided my skills would suit working as a consultant as I have the knowledge of being part of an agency/ working with children. My background is also working as a performer so I have always been confident in trying new things and speaking with people.

Why Aquinas?

I loved how the company was a small team and growing organisation, where I could add my own ideas in regards to expanding the company. I also loved how there was so much room for progression based on how well you do as an individual. It felt very personal and welcoming.

What attracted you to the job?

I have always been slightly competitive as a person. This is what attracted me to sales. I love the idea that the harder you work as an individual the better results you will get. I have always had a passion for Education & my previous job roles have always been to do with education/ helping people so decided with my skill set/ background & passions this job would fit my criteria perfectly!

Is it what you expected?

To some extent yes... I knew what the job would entail but my gosh there is so much more involved! There are so many twists, turns and surprises that make the life of a consultant/manager so interesting! I have most definitely learned to think on my feet - that’s for sure!

Best bits of the role

It has to be when you manage to find a candidate their perfect role. The satisfaction is like no other!
The positive feedback you get from candidates/schools really make the hard work you have put in worthwhile!
The buzz you get working with a great team in the office. Everyone helping each other out/ sales calls bonanza! We love it!

Worst parts of the role

Drop outs. There will always be times when candidates change their mind about a role and that always hurts slightly!
Failed sales calls - not being able to get a school on board straight away - if anything it just pushes us to try even harder!
Sick calls/ cancellations for supply - There's nothing worse than having 7 sick calls to fill in 1 morning!

What training have you had?

For this role, I have trained as a Team Teach trainer so I am able to train all of our candidates in Level 2 Team teach.
Also generic training.. sales call training/ recruitment training

Where do you see yourself progressing in the next few years?

Well... I have just been promoted to Branch Manager so this is a huge deal for me!
In regards to progressing in the future... maybe running my own office one day? - who knows!

Would you recommend this role to a friend?

It depends really... I think you have to be a special person to be a successful Recruitment Consultant. Long hours/ highs & lows.. I absolutely love it so would recommend the role if I thought a friend was suitable and could hack it! HAHA!

What qualities do you think you need?

• Strong work ethic / self motivation
• Flexibility
• Knowledge in Education
• Organisation
• Open minded
• Good people skills
• Passion for Education
• Empathetic personality
• Persistence

Do you want to become an Education Recruitment Consultant?

We are recruiting for all of our offices. If you are interested in joining the team, then please have a read of our dedicated recruitment page here.

Are you a teacher?

If you are a teacher then please, register FREE on the Aquinas Education system below and we will be in touch with you asap about this or other opportunities that may suit you.

Equal opportunities

We are an equal opportunities employer strongly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their commitment to children’s safeguarding. All successful appointments will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and a range of other pre-employment recruitment checks.