MY STORY
(so far)
I started out working as a temp for Headway which gave me the opportunity to step into different offices week after week, necessitating the need to quicly grasping new systems and ways of working.
I very quickly learnt about adaptability, resilience, and how important strong support is to the smooth running of any business, large, small or solo.
From there, I progressed into long-term secretarial and PA roles, including supporting senior leaders at organisations such as Leeds Metropolitan University (now Leeds Beckett University) and Cable & Wireless. I enjoyed a career break to have my beautiful daughter, then when she was a toddler, I was invited back into the workplace, by two friends actually, firstly as Bookkeeper for a successful estate agents in Headingley, Leeds (where I worked for nearly 10 years) and finally SmartSearch (again, for just shy of 10 years) where I progressed to Head of Payroll.
Across all of these roles, I’ve consistently supported and worked alongside fast-paced, detail-focused professionals and teams, where organisation, accuracy, reliability and trustworthiness are essential.
why ad-VA-nce?
My career so far, all of it office based, with small, medium and corporate businesses, in both the public and private sectors, has culminated in my absolutely knowing how I would like to work going forward. I am at my happiest when I’m supporting others, helping things run smoothly for them, and making their day an easier, happier and more productive day.
I left my position as Head of Payroll at SmartSearch in 2025 to set up ad-VA-nce; it was the perfect next step, allowing me to bring together my experience and skills to support successful but overly busy professionals to achieve their own career aspirations.
away from ad-VA-nce
Outside of work, I love spending time with my daughter and husband in Scarborough when I can, and as a self-confessed foodie I love nothing more than pottering around a good farm shop or discovering the latest restaurant or street food truck.
I dream of growing my own vegetables, picking them, cooking them and eating them; I’m in love with the fork to plate journey!
I’ve recently completed a full home renovation, which gave me the opportunity to indulge in some reconfiguration and interior design to bring a character stone property into the 21st century.
And I’m planning on learning the piano and Spanish over the next few years; if I say it out loud, I’m committed!
I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Shani for over a decade in the property industry, and I can say without hesitation that she is one of the most remarkable colleagues I’ve ever had. Shani has a fantastic ability to combine sharp, creative thinking with logical problem-solving and exceptional attention to detail. Equally impressive is the care she brings to every interaction, along with a warmth that makes her an absolute pleasure to work with.
Above all, Shani is someone you can always count on. She is engaged, honest and completely dependable. I wholeheartedly recommend Shani to any client or team fortunate enough to work with her. She will not let you down.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Shani for the past 10 years, and throughout that time she has consistently demonstrated accuracy, attention to detail, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to everything she does.
Shani has been a fantastic support to me and the wider team, always delivering high-quality work and making excellent use of Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to help us operate more efficiently. She is always looking for ways to improve processes and drive efficiencies, approaching every task with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
Shani’s cheerful personality, willingness to help others, and collaborative approach have made her a highly valued team player. She will be greatly missed, both professionally and personally, and I wish her every success and happiness in her next role.