Sarah Bowden

Highly organised and reliable Office Support and Administrative Professional with over 15 years' experience providing effective office, HR, and operational support across education, legal, travel, and global corporate environments. Experienced in managing busy offices, handling confidential information, coordinating meetings and records, and providing professional front‑line support. Known for strong attention to detail, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities calmly and efficiently.

Office Assistant / Safeguarding Administrator - Southlands School

(2020-01)

Provide day‑to‑day office and administrative support within a busy school environment.

• Act as first point of contact for parents, staff, and external agencies via phone, email, and in person.
• Maintain accurate, confidential records and electronic files in line with GDPR and school policies.
• Prepare reports, update spreadsheets, and manage data relating to safeguarding and SEN.
• Schedule meetings, maintain calendars, circulate agendas, and record and distribute minutes.
• Support compliance by ensuring documentation is accurate, complete, and securely stored.
• Manage staff training records and update internal systems accordingly.

Executive Assistant / HR Administrator - Freudenberg Sealing Technologies

(2006-01 - 2018-12)

Delivered comprehensive office, administrative, and executive support within a global manufacturing business.

• Managed office communications including telephone calls, emails, correspondence, and visitors.
• Maintained employee records, personnel files, and HR documentation with high accuracy.
• Supported payroll, expenses, invoices, and financial administration processes.
• Prepared reports, presentations, agendas, and meeting minutes for senior leadership.
• Coordinated UK and international travel, meetings, and conferences.
• Managed office supplies, contracts, and stationery budgets, including supplier tenders.
• Chaired monthly Health & Safety meetings, recording actions and following up outcomes.

Main Grade Travel Representative / Team Leader - TUI Holidays

(2000-01 - 2006-12)

• Carried out rota planning, attendance tracking, and administrative coordination.
• Supported managers with day‑to‑day operational and reporting tasks.
• Delivered high standards of customer service in a fast‑paced environment.
• Acted as a point of contact for customers, suppliers, and internal teams.

Trainee Legal Assistant - Stanton Croft Solicitors

(1998-01 - 2000-12)

Provided administrative support within a regulated legal office.

• Managed filing systems, correspondence, and confidential client documentation.
• Assisted with document preparation and general office duties.

CIPD Level 5 Diploma - Human Resources Practice

Level 3 Diploma - Supporting Teaching and Learning

NVQ Level 3 - Travel & Tourism

Level 3 - Childcare A Levels - English Language, French, Media Studies

GCSEs - English, IT, Business Studies