This month it’s the turn of Valerie Flexer, our bookings manager. She oversees the team responsible for course confirmations and liaison between all of the other departments to ensure that all of the administrative side of things go as smoothly as possible. Here’s your opportunity to find out who she is, more about what she does and what she likes to do outside of her work life. I took some time to sit with Val and ask her a few questions.
What do you do for English in Action?
I am the Bookings Manager and Credit Controller.
Can you tell me a bit about your role?
I focus on the effective administration of bookings for our programmes and assist our Accounts Manager (invoicing, refunds, credit control, etc…) I’m particularly good at pestering people for money! lol
My role evolved during and after COVID and I’m now part of the Retention Team which means I have more dealings with the Contact Teachers pre and post courses. So, quite a full-on job.
What did today look like for you?
Today, I checked all the final booking confirmations and centre masters for the next courses, did my weekly credit control, typed lists of students for individual payments, responded to countless emails and sent our Early Bird Offers to schools.
When did you join the company?
I joined EiA in September 2015. I wanted to get my teeth into a completely different role (having worked as a PA to the Managing Directors for a ferry operator in Dover for 10 years).
What’s the most enjoyable part of your work?
I enjoy the diversity of the role. Never a dull moment! Every day is different. It can be completely manic but rarely on the quiet side.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My children flew the nest many years ago and, although I’m a grandma of 2 lovely little girls, I am NOT the type of grandma that stays at home knitting jumpers for them! I would rather take them to festivals with me. I love yoga which I have been practicing for 13 years and go on retreats in the UK and abroad. I love music and dancing, go to numerous gigs and events.
What music are you listening to on Spotify at the moment?
I am listening to Sneaker Pimps. Apart from heavy metal, I love a broad variety of music ranging from Goldfrapp to Queens of the Stone Age!
What would your dream job be?
Making music and dancer.
What’s your favourite food/drink?
North African – nothing beats a good tagine! And Champagne which is often replaced by a good bottle of prosecco which is more affordable.
