Lauren Parfrey

I'm an enthusiastic, self-motivated graduate from Middlesex University, achieving a 2:1 in Advertising, PR and Media. I have successful recruitment, HR and office management experience across multiple sectors. I have strengthened my skill set over the years and am highly ambitious, outgoing and competitive, with excellent rapport-building skills.

I work well under pressure and enjoy a challenge. I perform well as part of a team, while also being a self-starter who works effectively in an individual setting with a positive attitude. I have strong organisational skills and excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence speaking to different types of clients, customers and members of the public.

I am keen to continue developing myself and my career.

Office Manager / Marketing Coordinator / Office Assistant / Recruitment Consultant at Ben Williams Recruitment

Career progression

• Managed recruitment processes from vacancy intake through candidate placement, onboarding and aftercare.
• Built strong relationships with clients and candidates, supporting clients across different markets and backgrounds.
• Developed new business through business development, cold calling, headhunting and effective rapport building.
• Took live job specifications from clients, developed an understanding of their organisations and industries, and advertised vacancies across job boards.
• Conducted group and first-stage one-to-one interviews, prepared CVs for clients and identified suitable candidates for specific roles.
• Completed DBS checks, ID verification, reference requests and reference verification, and handled confidential and private information professionally.
• Prepared and issued contracts, discussed and agreed terms of business, sent invoices and created documents and resources for the team.
• Supported colleagues with training and helped train new starters while managing a busy recruitment desk.
• Handled difficult concerns and conversations with clients and colleagues calmly and professionally.
• Carried out general office management and administrative duties, including scanning documents and maintaining an organised working environment.
• Worked flexibly both in the office and from home, adapting effectively to changing business needs.
• Supported a children's home renovation project and contributed to wider team initiatives.
• Consistently worked towards targets in a competitive environment, demonstrating resilience, organisation and commercial awareness.
• Sent congratulations cards and maintained positive candidate and client experiences throughout the recruitment journey.

Merchandiser at Deeset (2020-04 – 2020-11)

• Worked as a Merchandiser on a temporary contract during the COVID-19 period.
• Adapted quickly to a changing working environment while maintaining attention to detail and professional standards.

Graduate Recruitment Consultant at BMS Performance (2018-05 – 2020-02)

• Worked within a target-driven graduate recruitment environment, developing client and candidate relationships.
• Supported recruitment processes and developed commercial, communication and relationship-management skills.

Hostess / Event Hostess at Renard Resources (2015-01 – 2018-04)

• Worked at prestigious venues including Claridge's, The Ritz, Westminster Abbey, Lord's Cricket Ground and Abbey Road.
• Coordinated with event organisers to deliver successful outcomes and retained key guest information.
• Welcomed guests professionally and provided a friendly, high-quality service throughout events.
• Helped organise teams, supported event set-up and ensured appropriate place settings, silverware and drink glasses were prepared.
• Identified and immediately communicated issues to management, using critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Helped train new starters at the Ham Yard Hotel, Piccadilly.

Floor Sales Assistant at The Co-operative (2011-05 – 2015-08)

• Provided customer service and supported day-to-day sales-floor operations.
• Developed strong communication, teamwork and customer-facing skills in a busy retail environment.

BA (Hons) in Advertising, PR and Media – Middlesex University (2014 – 2018)

A Levels in Media Studies (C), IT (C), Applied Science (B) – John Cleveland College (2012 – 2014)