Desire Abass

Motivated Master's student in Human Resource Management with a 2:1 BA (Hons) in Business Management and experience delivering customer-focused support across retail, hospitality, and professional environments. Strong verbal and written communication, interpersonal, organisational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities quickly and accurately. Interested in employee support, HR policies, and the full employee lifecycle, with a discreet, diplomatic, and empathetic approach to handling customer needs.

Adaptable, proactive, curious, and eager to learn while contributing collaboratively to a high-pressure Global People Services environment.

Retail Sales Assistant at YoungOnes (2025-03 – Present)

• Provide professional, customer-focused support by identifying needs, answering product enquiries, and offering clear information to improve the customer experience.
• Resolve customer queries using active listening, sound judgment, empathy, and problem-solving skills while maintaining a positive and respectful approach.
• Collaborate with retail agencies and stores including Urban Outfitters, ZARA, and H&M, adapting communication and service delivery to different environments.
• Manage multiple responsibilities, including restocking merchandise and organising product displays, while maintaining accuracy, attention to detail, and high service standards.

Hospitality Team Member at Berry Recruitment (2023-10 – 2025-02)

• Delivered professional front-of-house and event support across Northamptonshire as a waitress, bar back, hostess, kitchen porter, and catering assistant.
• Communicated effectively with customers and colleagues in fast-paced, high-pressure settings, demonstrating teamwork, flexibility, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Processed customer payments accurately using card readers and POS machines while responding promptly to customer needs and enquiries.
• Maintained cleanliness, hygiene, and health and safety standards, using careful attention to detail and consistent adherence to procedures.

Hostess at Angus Steakhouse (2023-06 – 2023-09)

• Welcomed guests professionally and created a warm, inclusive environment through clear communication and attentive customer service.
• Managed seating arrangements while considering guest preferences and accessibility needs, demonstrating organisation, discretion, and sound judgment.
• Built positive guest relationships, responded to enquiries, and provided immediate, knowledgeable assistance to support customer satisfaction.
• Worked collaboratively with restaurant colleagues to coordinate service and ensure guest needs were handled efficiently.

Sales and Marketing Associate at Big City Bright Future (2022-07 – 2022-08)

• Supported the sales team by shadowing employees and contributing to projects designed to understand customer needs and business requirements.
• Developed an understanding of financial services through a two-week internship at BlackRock, gaining insight into professional standards and investment management.
• Strengthened problem-solving skills by exploring customer issues related to products and services and considering appropriate solutions.
• Analysed business needs across law, engineering, and politics and engaged with industry leaders during Insights Week in London.
• Shadowed professionals at multinational companies including Google and Direct Line, developing commercial awareness, communication skills, and confidence in professional environments.

Master's Degree in Human Resources – University of Northampton (2027)

BA (Hons) in Business Management – University of Northampton (2025)

A Levels in Business, Sociology, English Literature and Language – St Francis Xavier Catholic Sixth Form College (2022)

GCSEs in Secondary Education – Harris Academy Bermondsey (2020)