Denise Gradus

A warm, compassionate professional with a genuine commitment to supporting and empowering others. Known for approaching every interaction with patience, empathy, and kindness — whether supporting distressed members of the public, caring for vulnerable animals, or working alongside colleagues. Brings calm, thoughtful communication to emotionally charged situations, alongside strong organisational skills and a dedication to doing the right thing.

Team Leader at Pumpkins Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre (2023-11 – 2025-08)

• Built genuine, caring relationships with distressed members of the public who came to us in crisis — often frightened, upset, or overwhelmed — offering a calm presence, clear explanations, and compassionate follow-up
• Acted as a reassuring first point of contact for people bringing in injured wildlife, listening carefully and responding with empathy and understanding
• Coordinated soft release sites by liaising sensitively with members of the public to arrange locations, building trust and ensuring positive outcomes for all involved
• Led and supported a team with a focus on wellbeing, safeguarding awareness, and a culture of kindness
• Received and assessed new animal admissions, administered medications (oral and subcutaneous) across a range of species including foxes, hedgehogs, pigeons, corvids, and birds of prey
• Maintained thorough, accurate medical and care records for each animal, ensuring continuity of care
• Attended regular meetings with Charity Trustees, contributing updates and supporting organisational goals

Volunteer Animal Rescuer at Hilltop Animal Rescue (2020-09 – 2022-10)

• Provided compassionate support to distressed members of the public during emergency call-outs, offering a calm and reassuring presence in highly stressful situations
• Responded to emergency rescues for injured foxes, acting as a confident and caring first responder
• Safely transported animals to veterinary care, administering initial oral antibiotics where needed
• Worked independently in the field while maintaining clear communication with the rescue centre

Reiki Practitioner — Qualified Reiki Master at Self-Employed (2018 – 2020)

• Provided holistic, person-centred support to clients navigating difficult personal circumstances, creating a safe, kind, and confidential space for healing and wellbeing
• Listened deeply and responded with sensitivity to highly personal and emotional situations
• Volunteered at the Camp Simcha Mum's Spa Day, offering Reiki to families in need of comfort and care

Cake Designer & Baker at Self-Employed (2009 – 2017)

• Managed all customer relationships personally, building rapport and delivering a warm, attentive service for special and meaningful occasions
• Designed bespoke cakes tailored to individual client needs, handling all enquiries, quotations, and on-site deliveries with care
• Sourced suppliers, managed admin and filing, and maintained a professional, customer-focused business

Administrative & PA Roles at Finance Sector (1990 – 2000)

Progressed from Receptionist to Personal Assistant to Finance Manager, serving as a trusted first point of contact for clients

• Managed confidential client records and sensitive financial documentation with discretion
• Handled high volumes of calls and enquiries professionally, providing diary management, audio typing, correspondence, and travel coordination

– Rosary Priory (now Immanuel College) (1983 – 1985)

GCSEs in English Literature & Language, Maths, Drama, and Sociology – Bentley Wood High School (1985 – 1987)