Name: Anna Bird
Job Title: Finance Administrator
Hidden in the grounds of Ashdown Park Hotel, lies Elite Head Office. Here you will find members of the team that you probably won't see regularly but are vital (alongside our Hotel teams) in ensuring the smooth operation of our business as a whole. Anna joined the Head Office Accounts team four months ago, so now seemed like a good time to catch up and find out how she is enjoying her new role...
What led you to apply for a role at Elite?
I was looking to return to work after a short career break and I wanted to work in an accounts role within an interesting sector but also a professional and well established company. Another draw for me was that the role is part time; it fits around my children’s school hours and the beautiful location of Ashdown Park Hotel is also a huge benefit.
What were your first few weeks like?
Great! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, I felt settled very quickly. I attended the Induction training course during my first week, which was very informative and I also got to have a tour of The Grand and Ashdown Park Hotel. Everyone is extremely approachable and more than happy to answer countless questions!
What do you do in your day to day role?
I provide administrative support to the Finance Director, finance department and across the Elite office. My role is varied and every day is different in that I predominantly produce reports, collate financial information and help compile the group accounts, but I also occasionally carry out tasks and general office duties for the Sales team, wider Elite group and the individual hotels.
Has the job matched your expectations?
The job has exceeded my expectations. It is incredibly varied and interesting and my colleagues are exceptionally warm and friendly. I have found Elite to be a very accommodating and family friendly place to work, with a great positive atmosphere.
Have you previously worked in hotels? What is your background?
Whilst studying, I spent time working in Housekeeping and as a waitress in two hotels. This meant I had an understanding of the hotel industry but it wasn’t a prerequisite to my role at Elite. My background is in the Civil Service, where I worked at the Cabinet Office in Human Resources and then Finance.
What has been the most enjoyable part of working at Elite so far?
The most enjoyable part so far has been having the opportunity to go and visit each of the hotels in the Elite group, meet my colleagues there and tour the stunning hotels.
Would you recommend Elite as an employer?
Yes, definitely. Elite clearly values its staff and is proud of the fact a lot of people have worked here for many years. This is exhibited by the benefits awarded to staff and the sense that management genuinely wishes all members of their staff to thrive in their role.