Abbie Bateman

I am a passionate individual who desires an active role in both the environment and wildlife. My Wildlife Conservation with Zoo Biology degree has furthered my aspirations to build a more sustainable future, ensuring working practices and procedures align with ESG (environmental, social, governance) policies. My other work & volunteer experience has developed and demonstrated a flexibility to perform across various roles and take on diverse challenges. I am committed to delivering the highest standards of customer engagement through maintaining a professional image, exceptional service & knowledge, and ensuring to uphold the company’s image, behaviours, and values.

I have volunteered at various environmental establishments and have acquired animal handling skills as a volunteer Zookeeper. One of my proudest achievements was being selected to go to Uganda, Africa where I had the privilege of observing wildife in their natural habitats and working within a rainforest reserve. 

• I am interested in all things wildlife, such as nature documentaries and observation. My favourite conservationist is Sir David Attenborough, who inspired me to study conservation/sustainability at the University of Salford. I have recently returned from a field trip in Uganda, where I was able to conduct biodiversity surveys in the Budongo Rainforest Reserve.
• I am an avid reader of history and fiction, I enjoy cooking, knitting and hiking, primarily in the Lake District.
• I also love socialising with family, friends and work colleagues in all situations.

Bartender - Turtle Bay, Manchester (August 2022-Present)

I enjoy working in a fast-paced and dynamic work-space, every day I face new challenges that require independent on-the-spot thinking and problem-solving skills. I have won multiple certificates and awards for demonstrating an exemplary performance and attitude, going the extra mile to be the very best I can be. Working as part of a team is fundamental, I am aware of each members responsibilities, asking for and offering help when necessary to maintain smooth business operation. I take pride in my ability to build strong relationships with a diverse range of colleagues. Other responsibilities include:

• Training new members of staff on policy and procedure
• Independently opening and closing the bar/restaurant
• Dealing with customer complaints by finding and offering the most productive and positive solution
• Merchandising of the bar/restaurant to preserve a fresh and appealing image, and match current celebrations/festivals in Manchester
• Maintain excellent hygiene standards whilst working in a fast-paced environment.

Volunteer Zookeeper - Ponderosa Zoo, Heckmondwike (May 2024-August 2024)

Volunteering at Ponderosa Zoo has advanced my knowledge of wildlife conservation and welfare practices. The experience has allowed me to take on the responsibilities of a Zookeeper role. I have assisted with animal training, observation and enrichment, recreating natural habitats and enabling the expression of natural behaviours. Due to my high performance and University degree, I was entrusted to provide visitor engagement, educating members of the public about the animals and conservation status. Other responsibilities included:

• Maintain cleanliness of animal enclosures and provide general on-site maintenance
• Maintain a naturalistic environment within enclosures for enrichment
• Maintain infection control and prevent cross-contamination
• Engage in animal observations to monitor health and identify changes in behaviour
• Inventory management, ensuring correct quantities of animal feed

Veterinary Nursing Assistant - North Downs Specialist Referrals, Bletchingley (April 2019-August 2021)

As a veterinary nursing assistant, I developed inter-personal skills, working with colleagues, animals and members of the public. I was required to follow safety and welfare procedures when carrying out animal handling and providing nutrition. I was entrusted to sort and administer medications to patients. My confidence and adaptability was recognised by the senior management team who sponsored me to undertake a Veterinary Care Support course. Additionally, I was given increased responsibility, being put in charge of the running of the endoscopy unit, the maintenance of relevant equipment, and assisting with procedures. This responsibility required excellent stakeholder management and time-keeping skills, maintaining an open dialogue with clinicians to provide necessary operation requirements. Other responsibilities included:

• Assisted and prepared for procedures in Ultrasound, Cardiology, Oncology, Ophthalmology and Dermatology units
• Recognise the signs of a ‘crash situation’ and respond accordingly to alert nurses and clinicians for life-saving intervention
• Maintained infection control, e.g., animals in isolation from zoonotic diseases
• Tailoring behaviour towards different animals regarding stress levels, e.g., being innovative with calming techniques and creating an atmosphere

Other Work Experience

• Volunteer Ranger - Brockholes Nature Reserve, Samlesbury (Feb 2024 - May 2024)
• Team Member - McDonalds, Salford (Feb 2022 - Aug 2022)
• Team Member / Barista - Urban Kitchen, Reigate (Feb 2017 - April 2019)
• Team Member - Coughlans Bakery, Reigate (Jan 2016-Feb 2017)