PA Forum

Today we hear from Paul Anthony Holmes, the 2024 winner of PA & Office Manager of the Year Award, as he shares his journey with us! Thank you, Paul. “These awards remind us of the value behind PA and office management roles, recognising the dedication it takes to succeed. Being acknowledged by my peers is deeply validating. It’s also an opportunity to show how our work, often behind the scenes, is essential to an organisation's success (they can't cope without us)! 😁 Last year, I received around 50 nominations for the PA of the Year and PA & Office Manager of the Year categories. It was a shock to return from leave and find my inbox full of nominations—it felt surreal! In my submissions, I highlighted my attention to detail and commitment, from managing complex projects to supporting my colleagues and clients. My focus on thoroughness has often led to impactful outcomes, helping illustrate my unique approach. When my colleagues learned I was shortlisted, their encouragement was overwhelming. They knew I downplayed my contributions; 75% of the work I did was for them, done behind the scenes on evenings and weekends. Their excitement gave me a fresh perspective on my work’s impact. Many expressed how well-deserved the recognition was, which was both touching and eye-opening. Initially, the process felt out of my comfort zone. I enjoy working behind the scenes despite my outgoing personality (sorry for my dancing at the awards woops), so the spotlight was daunting. But as I went through it, I gained pride in what I’ve accomplished. Now, I feel grateful and confident, and I’d never look back without feeling thankful for this chance. I now realise that being recognised doesn’t diminish the sincerity of my work but celebrates it! To those considering a nomination, know that recognising someone’s hard work can be life-changing (it was for me)! Often, we don’t see our contributions clearly, so it’s immensely powerful to hear from others (I cried after reading one nomination!). Even if just one person appreciates somebody, make that nomination for them! For those who are nominated, embrace it and make the most of it! Since winning PA & Office Manager of the Year, I’ve connected with a network of peers who share my dedication. Personally, the experience highlighted the value of self-worth; I always knew I was destined for more. After the award, I handed in my notice and accepted a new role after being headhunted. Later, I was approached to join the board of directors at an exciting venture! The opportunities are endless. I’m deeply grateful for the position winning this award has put me in. 🥰 For anyone considering it, remember that celebrating yourself doesn’t take away from your humility—it honours the hard work you put in daily, and if you feel unnoticed, WE see you—the community sees YOU!” REMEMBER TO NOMINATE   https://lnkd.in/e2kcqG6X

As we celebrate our 9th Birthday this week, this was a HUGE and very pleasant surprise 🔽 Firstly, a HUGE shout out to Sarah Howson, Marianne Whitlock & Savanna Skeath for creating a space at the Strategic PA Network Awards 2024 for fellow networks across the UK This category was a celebration and recognition of the amazing work fellow networks and communities are doing to represent and champion the profession we all love ❤️ There is no competition between us. All of us are tirelessly working to do all we can regionally or nationally to offer a space, a platform, a community, a collective for Executive & Business Support Professionals. There will be some who don't need us, who aren't interested, who won't attend and that's absolutely OK The important thing is to know that we are there and as long as you all keep getting involved, keep supporting, keep networking, keep learning and sharing we will always be here. Some of us offer a platform that recognises excellence in the role and shine a spotlight on the amazing work this profession does everyday that adds value to every business Some of us focus on Learning & Development to ensure that our communities keep up to date with skills and to instill confidence that what you do and are doing matters and will always matter and that Exevutive & Business Support Professionals should be given the same opportunities that any other department gets in any business Some of us focus on social events, exhibitions, networking, providing a space for what can sometimes be an isolated role to help build your contact base, make your life easier and give you a helping hand when you need it Some of us offer Mentorship, a buddying program, a chance to share your experience with the next generation or a platform to share your journey with others. Whichever network you are a part of, if you have found your space we welcome you, I want to thank fellow network leaders and everyone involved in these networks that make them what they are. This was a great recognition for us, we will always work collaboratively, our door is always open and so I want to say thank you to Kim Togneri FEPAA for nominating us, thank you to all of our committee members, members, partners, suppliers, sponsors, allies and supporters Thank you to everyone who has and continues to help shape PA Forum and all the other networks who were finalists with us in this category 📍Manchester PA Network and Manchester PA Awards 📍 Canary Wharf PA Club 📍 PA Life Magazine 📍 The PA Hub Limited It's a pleasure to work with and have partnership with you all, Wishing Manchester PA Awards all the best, so sorry we can't be there this year it is such an AWESOME night! Can't wait to see all the social media during and after the event! 🏆⭐️

Today we spotlight Russell Smith,Arup the 2024 category winner of the CSR & EDI Champion Award 🔽 West Midlands PA Awards 2024 Let’s hear from Russell in his own words: “These awards recognise the dedication it takes to champion CSR and EDI within a Business Support Role. For me, they validate CSR and EDI as core values, highlighting their role in building sustainable, inclusive environments. I won the award in 2024, showcasing impactful initiatives like leading our 'Know Your City' programme. This programme assessed community needs before our office relocation, strengthening engagement through policy analysis, stakeholder surveys, and sustainability initiatives. Our renovation of Hawthorn Primary School’s garden further showcased our commitment to local needs. The award process was motivating and allowed me to reflect on our progress. Winning has expanded my role, with a promotion to Social Value Manager, where I can integrate social value further within Arup and the community. This journey has been deeply rewarding, offering personal growth and a platform to inspire meaningful change.” Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and motivation to participate in the West Midlands PA Awards 2025. REMEMBER TO NOMINATE YOUR CSR & EDI CHAMPIONS OR SELF-NOMINATE TODAY 🔽 https://lnkd.in/e2kcqG6X #WMPA2025 #PAAwards #PAForum #ExecutiveAssistant #PAAwards2025 #SupportProfessionals #RecognitionMatters #EACelebration #LeadershipSupport #EmpoweredAssistants #CareerRecognition #PAAchievement #WestMidlandsEvents #CelebratingSuccess

Prize Winner Announcement 📢🔽 Our October newsletter included a chance for PA Forum members to WIN an overnight stay for 2, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel 😤 Congratulations Natalie Baudet, Jaguar Land Rover UK Beth Harrison & Lucy Gilpin will be in touch with details on how to claim your prize! Looking for an amazing venue? "Nestled in the picturesque Malvern Hills, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel offers an exceptional venue for inspired meetings, exclusive use and residential conferences. With its blend of historical elegance and modern amenities, this former abbey provides an inspiring environment perfect for any corporate event, from intimate team meetings to large residential conferences. The tranquil setting, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, makes it an ideal location for fostering creativity, collaboration, and focus. There are 70 bedrooms, 15 flexible meeting rooms which host up to 400 delegates, a games room, a wine cellar, and a snooker room! We offer a variety of team-building activities designed to inspire collaboration and innovation among your team. Whether you prefer outdoor challenges or indoor workshops, our preferred team building partners are guaranteed to meet the specific goals of your event." GET IM TOUCH 📩 Daniel@pa-forum.co.uk For more information about the Hand Picked Hotels Collection Thank you for taking the time to enter our October Prize Draw 🤗

Today, we’re thrilled to feature Sarah Szekir-Papasavva, the 2024 winner of the Independent Virtual Assistant of the Year category! 🎉 This is the fifth instalment in our series spotlighting the incredible winners and finalists from the West Midlands PA Awards.  “ Taking part in the West Midlands PA Awards 2024 was definitely a highlight of my year. Not only because I was the winner of the ‘Independent Virtual Assistant of the Year 2024’ award, but because it was such a joyful journey to be on, along with the amazing PA Forum team and collaborators. I am so grateful for the wonderful support, encouragement, and recognition that we received from our clients, colleagues, and peers throughout our nomination and when we won the award. It is so special to be celebrated for an achievement such as this, and this support is what allows Apt Virtual Assistance to thrive. I have always been outspoken when it comes to entering awards, as I highly encourage everyone to self-nominate or fully apply if they have been nominated. I understand it can seem like a daunting process, but I see it as a celebration of all that we have achieved and worked hard for in our careers. Reflecting on the work we do should be an enjoyable process, and entering awards enables us to visualise where we are at, and where we envision to go. Regardless of winning, or even making it to the finals, I feel that the awards’ process for the West Midlands PA Awards is rewarding in itself – from the thoughtful questions in the application form, to the friendly and welcoming judges, to the wonderful celebrations and coming together of the supportive and collaborative community of Executive & Business Support Professionals during it. I would highly recommend anyone to forget their fears and apply – this is an opportunity for reflection, recognition and rewarding celebrations!” Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys, insights into the process and motivation to participate in the awards in 2025. REMEMBER TO NOMINATE OR SELF-NOMINATE  https://lnkd.in/e2kcqG6X #WMPA2025 #PAAwards #PAForum #ExecutiveAssistant #PAAwards2025 #SupportProfessionals #RecognitionMatters #EACelebration #LeadershipSupport #EmpoweredAssistants #CareerRecognition #PAAchievement #WestMidlandsEvents #CelebratingSuccess

🎁 Your chance to WIN this amazing Christmas Gifting Hamper with Treat Kitchen 🔽 Did you recieve our latest PA Forum newsletter today? You can "Subscribe" via the link below if you would like to recieve these from us 🔽 https://lnkd.in/eqxZu_-v Thank you Richie Woodward, Purple Caterpillar Business Services for getting our newsletters back on track

Today, we are excited to resume our series on the #WMPAA24. The spotlight is on Kathy Soulsby, the Chief Organiser of Personally Virtual as she shares her journey. Category winner of Virtual Assistant Business of the Year Award, West Midlands PA Awards 2024 “I entered the WM Awards because I’d heard great things about them from other people. Industry awards are really important. We’re not a profession that gets a lot of credit – most PAs and VAs work so hard and are somewhat overlooked – so it’s amazing to have awards that celebrate the huge contributions we make to businesses in the UK. Those we work with do understand what an impact we have but that doesn’t always translate to praise or acknowledgement, we’re often in the background and chose the profession so we didn’t have to be in the limelight. Awards showcase the phenomenal talent out there and the impact PAs and VAs have in the businesses we support outside of the day job – whether that’s championing D&I or other initiatives, hardworking PAs are all over it, whilst doing a busy role. I loved the process of the WM VA Awards. I say that, having been a judge on other awards! Doing interviews is hugely helpful for the entrants and judges. When you rely on just an application form, it’s hard to judge if you’re choosing the best person or the one who writes best. A panel interview means judges can dig into what you do and how you do it in a more authentic way and you can add things you forgot! That might sound scary, please don’t let it put you off entering. The judges were lovely. They want you to do well; it’s just a Zoom call with people who understand the role. Nothing to be nervous about! The process was lovely, but the event itself surpassed my expectations. It was a warm and friendly vibe. And seriously well organised (as you’d expect from a bunch of PAs!). I loved it. I think I’d have had just as much fun if I hadn’t won, it’s a collaborative industry and we support one another. I’m a VA so marketing is extremely important to me. I posted a few times on LinkedIn about the win and was lucky enough to have others tag me. I was surprised by how many clients and people in my network messaged or said “And look at you, winner!”. It was nice and these folks hadn’t liked or commented on my posts, but the chatter was enough that it passed into their consciousness. This is vital brand awareness for me and my team. As an employed PA, it’s key to think about your personal brand. Networking is ongoing; you shouldn’t just do it when you’re looking for a new job. Being visible in a positive light is a no-brainer. As a PA, I think it’s harder to find things to post about on socials than it is for me! It’s such a positive message to shout about, or quietly post if shouting isn’t your thing, and it can only be good.” Nominate your VA or self-nominate! https://lnkd.in/e2kcqG6X #PAForum #WestMidlandsPAAwards #VirtualAssistant #VAawards2025 #RecognitionMatters #LeadershipSupport #WestMidlandsEvents

Tomorrow, we celebrate our 9th year as a community and what a 9 years it has been! 🪅🥳🎉 To every single person who has been a part of this journey together. Thank You 🙏 A community can only exist for as long as those who want it to be there for them and I hope we will be able to continue to be there for eachother for many more years to come. We hope that together, with you all, we will continue to make a difference and make an impact. however big or small, to the lives of the people this very community was created for. As we celebrate together we would love to hear about some of your personal memories and experiences in the comments below 🔽 The word "Community" has a very different meaning to us all, You might not always need us but we hope we will always be there 🤞 Raising a glass to you all 🥂 and a very heartfelt thank you from all the team and our wonderful voluntary committee members here at your PA Forum.

Today it is the turn Matthew Munro-King to share his #WMPA journey with us in his own words. “Recognition is a powerful and important tool. For me, it is a huge part of maintaining a motivated, satisfied, and loyal team and plays a big part in good, positive mental health in the workplace. I was nominated for Project Manager of the Year 2024 and received a Highly Commended recognition. This honor felt as rewarding as winning because it truly reflected not only the category I was nominated for but also my personality and the way I conduct myself in my role within the industry. I received an outpouring of support and kind words from my colleagues. They were genuinely happy for me and felt the recognition was well-deserved, having witnessed the dedication and passion I invested in not only setting up the project but also in its ongoing development and evolution within the firm. The awards process was smooth, with clear instructions at each milestone and the PA Forum team readily available to answer any questions and guide me through the next steps. The nomination and the final result ignited a passion within me and boosted my self-esteem, motivating me to continue delivering results that I am proud of and that hold significant value within the firm. For those wanting to nominate; do it. Don’t hesitate or assume someone else will recognise the exceptional work someone has done. Take ownership and follow through with the nomination. Just being nominated is a win in itself, and you never know how much it could lift someone’s spirits. As a manager, it’s essential to create a positive and motivated working environment while nurturing every team member. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind where days turn into weeks, weeks into months, and before you know it, it’s Christmas again! Lead by example—show your team that you care and that you see their efforts. For those being nominated. Don’t be surprised, you are excellent at what you do. Enjoy and bask in your glory. When writing your ‘examples’ don’t be afraid to self-praise. You have been nominated for a reason!” NOMINATE or SELF-NOMINATE today! https://lnkd.in/e2kcqG6X #WMPA2025 #PAAwards #PAForum #ExecutiveAssistant #PAAwards2025 #SupportProfessionals #RecognitionMatters #EACelebration #LeadershipSupport #EmpoweredAssistants #CareerRecognition #PAAchievement #WestMidlandsEvents #CelebratingSuccess