marie Barber

I have just completed a Bachelor's in Social and Therapeutic interventions, (final grade pending).

Before returning to education, I successfully managed an events company, headed up communications for an online retailer, and held a retail management position for 8 years. I am an effective communicator, with extensive experience in many different sectors. The full-time degree has allowed me to establish a balance between work and home life, all while honing academic writing, maintaining deadlines, and working to a schedule. I found my natural organization skills invaluable during this process.

I am looking for a flexible job that offers hybrid working and brings home at least £25, 000 a year.

Communications Executive – leisureshopdirect.com April 2017 – 2021

• Improved satisfaction via skilful communication, shaping positive client perceptions.
• Created organic product promotion, boosting interest from the target audience.
• Optimized content for better search visibility with evolving Google algorithms.
• Elevated engagement with diverse, captivating presentations for consumers.
• Tailored writing to specific briefs, yielding impactful results.

PTA chair – Marldon C of E Primary School – 2019 – 2020

This was a volunteer role held for one term as policy, raising extra funds to support the Primary School and Pupils.

• Innovatively tackled staff and pupil challenges via special projects.
• Surpassed previous year's profits with strategic fundraising and financial prowess.
• Consistently delivered exceptional outcomes, earning praise from parents and staff.
• Fostered an energetic environment, positively impacting stakeholders with continuous engagement.

Events Manager - TQZ survival Aug 2014 - Aug 2017

Co-founded an immersive experience company that exceeded profit expectations by 25%, by running multiple events throughout Torbay.

• Managed 100+ staff, volunteers, and participants for seamless immersive experiences.
• Secured land permissions through strategic Torbay Council consultations, ensuring smooth event operations.
• Implemented comprehensive Health & Safety protocols, prioritizing participant well-being.
• Sourced props, crafted scripts, developed maps, and set role play guidelines for memorable experiences.
• Achieved zero environmental impact by skilful operations management, aligning with sustainability goals.

Store Manager - Ann Summers Torquay Aug 2005 – Aug 2014

Had overall responsibility for a busy, specialised retail store, while coordinating the region’s communications. Managed all aspects whilst leading the team from the shop floor. Set an example for the team through exceptional customer service and responded to customers with friendly and knowledgeable service.

• Enhanced profitability through adept profit and loss management, optimizing finances.
• Led key segments of regional meetings, gaining company-wide recognition for outstanding leadership.
• Vital role in supporting head office initiatives for companywide releases, showcasing dedication to success.
• Consistently exceeded Visual Merchandising benchmarks, enhancing customer shopping experience.
• Effectively managed complaints, surpassing targets, and reducing wastage.
• Achieved sub-5% shrinkage via strategic stock management, elevating inventory control.
• Devised and executed schedules within payroll budgets, optimizing workforce management.
• Built, developed, and retained KPI-driven team, fostering high achievement culture.

BSc (hons) Social and Therapeutic interventions (2023-2024)

FdSc Psychology and Counselling (2021 – 2023)

Level 2 certificate in Domestic Abuse (2022)

Level 1 Mental Health Awareness Workshop (2022)

CIPD level 2 certificate in HR Fundamentals (2021)

NCFE level 2 certificate in Counselling Skills (2019)

NVQ Level 3 in Retail Management

Richmond School, A-level examinations: 

General Studies, Art and Design

RSA Computer Literacy and Information Technology

Richmond School GCSE Examinations:

11 GCSE’s including Maths and English at A grade.