Category Archives: Jobs

Appointments, Business, Employment, Energy, Job Opportunities, Jobs

250 new jobs created at Consumer Energy Solutions

SWANSEA-BASED energy efficiency firm Consumer Energy Solutions (CES) has recruited 250 new staff so far this year as it experiences growing demand for its products and services.

The recruitment drive follows the opening of two new offices in Swansea’s SA1 waterfront area at the end of 2023 as the company addresses those growing demands.

The fast-growing company now has a workforce of more than 700 people, supporting customers in energy-proofing their homes to reduce their carbon footprint, and ultimately, their energy bills.

The new hires span across various departments, including administration, customer service, finance, people services, heating, insulation, renewables and electrics.

Lewis John, Managing Director, Consumer Energy Solutions, said: “At CES, we are deeply committed to fostering economic growth and prosperity in the regions where we operate.

“Our investment in expanding our workforce underscores our belief in the potential of local talent and our commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities.

“By nurturing a skilled and diverse team, of which we have massive ambitions to grow even further, we not only strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional service to our customers but also contribute to the vitality of the communities we serve.

“We firmly believe that by investing in people, we can drive positive change and make a lasting impact on both the environment and the economy.”

Established in 2016, Consumer Energy Solutions (CES) delivers money-saving energy efficiency improvements to homes across South Wales and the South West.

 

Current Consumer Energy Solutions career opportunities can be found here: https://careers.consumerenergysolutions.co.uk/

For more information, visit: https://www.consumerenergysolutions.co.uk/ 

 

Job Opportunities, Jobs, News

Homesitters launches recruitment drive ahead of peak summer season

As summer approaches Homesitters Ltd, the UK’s leading home and pet sitting company, is actively seeking new homesitters ahead of the peak holiday season and is highlighting the benefits of the role including travel opportunities and boosting income.

A report in February from 50+ Choices Roundtable found that one third (3.6 million) of over-50s are engaged in part-time work and 72 per cent want to have flexibility in their work[i].

Other research from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines shows almost a quarter (24%) of 55 and overs say they have got more adventurous with age and three in 10 (29%) travel more now they are retired than they did previously.[ii]

Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters Ltd said: “Homesitting is an attractive role for older people who want to be active in retirement or gradually transition to retirement. The chance to travel more is a significant draw for many, and as the role is flexible, it can easily fit around other commitments.

“People can choose as many assignments as they wish and some only work in the summer to take advantage of the lighter days to see new places. We operate nationally, so it is a fantastic opportunity to travel around the UK without paying for hotels or B&Bs. It’s also a great way to spend time with pets, typically dogs and cats, which is a major highlight of the role.”

Homesitters receive a modest remuneration, a food allowance and mileage plus they can make savings on their bills when on assignment. Combined with the travel perks, the role offers a fulfilling way to supplement pension income.

Sharon Payne, 60, from Milton Keynes, discovered homesitting in 2018 after taking early retirement. She was looking for a job that wasn’t office based and found homesitting the ideal fit as it gave her the chance to travel, spend time with pets, and earn a modest income.

Sharon said: “Homesitting may sound like a low key job but it comes with major responsibility as people’s homes and pets are the most important things in people’s lives, apart from their children.”

Sharon enjoys meeting interesting people on assignment. Talking about one of her most memorable assignments she said: “I stayed in a beautiful old house in a small village where I looked after two dogs – and 35 tortoises. I really enjoyed looking after them, although I had to keep going to the local shop for more salad as they eat a kilo of salad every day between them! They are quite low maintenance and mostly put themselves to bed at night although I did have to check they were all in their beds and look for any stragglers.”

Other memorable home sits include staying in a gorgeous Tudor mansion in Cambridgeshire with landscaped gardens and a swimming pool and looking after an extremely well behaved dog near Chelmsford who, when he got muddy, would sit by the door and lift his paws one by one for Sharon to wash and wait to be towel dried off before venturing into the house.

Sharon appreciates the income she receives and is saving money. She explained: “The salary is modest but what I earn I don’t spend. I’ve noticed that since I started home sitting my gas, electric and water bills are significantly lower – my water company keeps reducing my monthly payment. I also get a food allowance, so I eat for free while I’m on assignment.”

Homesitters is currently recruiting. Ideal candidates are responsible and reliable people, who are good listeners, and will be sensitive to clients’ requirements. Proven pet-care skills and a genuine affinity for animals are also a bonus.

For more information and to apply to become a homesitter visit: www.homesitters.co.uk

[i] https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1861758/cipd-led-over-50s-report-calls-job-ads-promote-flexible-working

[ii] https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/tourism/golden-gap-year-trend-spotted-as-adventurous-retirees-save-up-to-travel

Beauty, Business, Cardiff, Cardiff News, Education, Employee Motivation, Hair and Beauty, Job Opportunities, Jobs

Cardiff teen lands her dream job through Jobs Growth Wales+

A 17-year-old apprentice from Cardiff is flying to Budapest after support from the Welsh Government’s Jobs Growth Wales+ programme to land her dream role as a Hairdresser.

Darla Wathen recently completed her Level 1 NVQ qualification in Hairdressing and is currently working at Henderson & Co. as a Junior Stylist.

When discussing her route to employment, Darla said: “I wasn’t very academic at school, but I’ve always been a creative person. I decided to meet with Working Wales to scope out my options and Jobs Growth Wales+ appealed to me because of the work placements and hands-on training that were incorporated into your learning.

“Back then I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my future, so I attended a few taster days to explore different career pathways. The courses on offer varied from childcare to beauty to construction and animal care, but it was hairdressing that I discovered I had a passion for.”

Having found her feet, Darla excelled on the programme and quickly proved to her tutors that she was a talented and dedicated learner.

Darla said: “My tutor, Charlotte, played a huge role in how comfortable and at ease I felt on Jobs Growth Wales+. I was nervous when I first started the programme, but she spent a lot of time helping me build on my essential skills before looking for employment.

“As well as working with me to improve my CV, Charlotte would act out interview scenarios with me to get me used to a real-life environment. This massively helped with my confidence and was a huge turning point for me.

“My Jobs Growth Wales+ tutors saw my potential. Everyone treated me like an adult, and I could tell the programme wanted me to succeed.”

With the support she received, Darla soon secured her job at Henderson & Co. in Cardiff and is currently thriving as a Junior Stylist.

Darla continued: “Working at Henderson & Co. has been amazing. I really appreciate the advice the other stylists give me, and I’ve already learnt so much in such a short space of time. When I’m not with clients, I’m either on reception, tidying or doing stock take – I love going to work because no day is the same!”

“I’m really keen to specialise in colour and I’ve been lucky enough to practice different techniques – from block colour, balayage, foils and highlights. I even dyed a customer’s hair red the other day.”

This year, Darla will be flying to Budapest with Henderson & Co. to attend a fashion show workshop.

“I feel incredibly lucky to be going with the team to a Kevin Murphy fashion show. It’s another new adventure and an opportunity for me to be taught by the very best influencers and experts in the industry.”

Darla has also got her sights set on gaining more work experience in Australia before returning to Wales to set up her own salon.

Darla said: “I’m hoping to progress with Henderson & Co, and maybe in a few years even live and work in Australia to learn new techniques again. At the moment I’m taking every day as it comes but it would be amazing to set up my own salon eventually.

“My one piece of advice for people who don’t know what they want to do when they’re at school is to talk to others about your options. I felt incredibly listened to and was lucky enough to find a career because of the training and funding provided through Jobs Growth Wales+.”

To learn more about Jobs Growth Wales+ visit workingwales.gov.wales/jobs-growth-wales-plus or call Working Wales on 0800 028 4844.

Appointments, Automotive, Business, Cardiff, Careers, Economy & Jobs News, HR, Jobs

Industrial electronic repair firm Kontroltek Ltd welcomes new Director of Commercial and HR

One of the UK’s leading providers of industrial electronic repairs has announced the appointment of Catherine Demaid as its new Director of Commercial and HR.

Kontroltek, being the largest independent firm of its type in the UK, covers the whole of the UK, specialising in Industrial Electronic Repairs, working with all sectors of manufacturing and servicing businesses across the UK and globally.

With her extensive experience and expertise, Cath will play a pivotal role in driving the company’s strategic growth initiatives and fostering a culture of excellence.

Cath brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to her new role, having served in various senior leadership positions in the fields of acquisitions, HR and transformational change.

With a proven track record of developing and implementing effective organisational development and growth strategies, Cath is poised to lead Kontroltek’s plans for major expansion in the UK and Europe. Her experience in driving business growth is set to be instrumental in nurturing talent pipelines and fostering a culture of innovation and advancement within the industrial electronics sector.

Commenting on her appointment, Cath said: “I am thrilled to be part of the Kontroltek team and am committed to leveraging my experience to drive the company’s strategic objectives forward.

“I believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and talent development and engagement, and I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Kontroltek to achieve our goals.”

Andrew Follant, Managing Director, Kontroltek Ltd, added: “We are delighted to welcome Cath to the Kontroltek family as our Director of Commercial and HR. With her extensive background in strategic change, performance initiatives and organisational development, she will play a pivotal role in driving our company’s growth and success.

“Her passion for excellence and commitment to fostering a positive work culture and impressive talent pipelines align perfectly with Kontroltek’s vision. We look forward to her transformational leadership as we continue to expand and innovate in the industrial electronic repair industry.”

Appointments, Business News, Economy & Jobs News, FInance, Jobs, London, News from Wales

Quantum Advisory promotes Darren Wateridge to Principal Consultant in London

Quantum Advisory, the leading independent financial services consultancy, today announced the promotion of Darren Wateridge FIA to the role of principal consultant. Darren, who is based in the firm’s London office, took up the role on 1 January 2024.

Rhidian Williams, partner, said: “Our people are at the centre of our success as a business and we invest in the highest calibre of staff. Their continued support and development is part of our ethos so promoting talent from within is key.

“Throughout his career at Quantum, Darren’s talent, commitment and client management expertise has been apparent. We are confident he will continue to excel in his new position and play a pivotal role in the continued growth of the company.”

Darren Wateridge added: “The market landscape is the most dynamic and competitive it has ever been, and we welcome that challenge. We have some really exciting plans and initiatives coming up this year to further support our clients.

“It has been a privilege to be part of the evolution of Quantum over the last 10 years and I am very much looking forward to now being integral to the strategic leadership going forward.”

 

Darren joined the firm in 2013 as a senior consultant and actuary and has over 25 years’ experience in the pensions industry.

Darren is currently Scheme Actuary to a number of pension scheme clients and advises trustees and companies on the wide range of issues affecting pension schemes including scheme funding, company accounting, scheme benefit change exercises and de-risking strategies.

Darren is also a member of the Association of Consulting Actuaries.

This is the latest in a string of promotions for the firm, most recently with Simon Hubbard to principal consultant in Cardiff.

For more information on Quantum Advisory, visit www.quantumadvisory.co.uk

Apprenticeships, Jobs

Oxford contractor launching new ‘centre for excellence’ to mark National Apprenticeship Week

Oxford-based electrical/mechanical contractor and Royal Warrant holder Lowe & Oliver is today officially launching its new apprentice training facility, the ’centre for excellence’, to mark the beginning of National Apprenticeship Week.

Thousands of pounds have been invested into developing this advanced training facility, which has the capacity to teach not only Lowe & Oliver’s roster of approximately 30 apprentices, but dozens more from across central and southern England.

In the facility, there are six bays – five electrical and one mechanical (plumbing), with demo equipment installed to give the apprentices a feel of what a real site will look like. In addition, there is a classroom and other facilities to enable the apprentices to learn on and off the tools.

Lowe & Oliver will be using this new centre as part of their pitch to local schools and colleges to encourage more young people into the apprenticeship route. Having been in the industry for over 100 years, Lowe & Oliver has developed a strong reputation in the area for its commitment to apprenticeship development.

For filming opportunities/interview opportunities, please contact alistair@ahcomms.org.

Fred Lowe, Lowe & Oliver Director, commented:

“We’re delighted to have this centre up and running, with our year one apprentices already on location. The skills shortage is a crisis which is only growing, and we are determined to play our part in helping to develop the next generation of engineers.

Lowe & Oliver apprentices will be advancing through a mix of onsite work and development learning in our ‘centre for excellence’. This unique programme will lead the way not only in Oxfordshire, but across the country.

It’s particularly rewarding for us to able open the doors of this facility just as the company has celebrated 100 years in the industry – an achievement which is almost unheard of.

We’re all looking forward to our apprentices taking full advantage of having such an advanced facility on their doorstep, and are hoping to bolster those numbers throughout 2024 by bringing in more apprentices than ever before from local schools and colleges.”

Paul Tuson, Lowe & Oliver Chairman, added:

“Our skills centre has been manufactured for both the practical and technical development of our apprentices – following the curriculum of the Electrical and Mechanical traditional apprenticeship under the NVQ Level 2, 3 and above, supported by the JIB, JTL and BESA.

Whether specific development is required around mains distribution, power, lighting/controls, building management systems, data, fire security, domestics, gas, heating, ventilation, boilers or air source heat pump, audio visual and testing and inspection, vehicle charging, battery, solar or PV – it can deliver.

Utilising specific cabling be that SWA, Conduit/Singles, FP, LSF, SY, CAT 6A, Copper tube, soldered, compression, crimped, plastic pipework systems, MDPE, screwed or welded steel – enhanced training will be provided.

The basis of our training is designed to add support to the levels, and beyond that, already provided by their existing training provider and current college facility.”

Apprenticeships, Jobs, News, Swansea

Carmarthenshire apprentice helps Amazon celebrate 1,000 new apprenticeship opportunities for 2024

An apprentice at Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Swansea is encouraging others to start an apprenticeship and boost their careers as Amazon announces the expansion of its apprenticeship programme with the addition of 1,000 new positions across the UK in 2024.

Amazon offers one of the UK’s top private sector apprenticeship schemes according to the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers[1], including entry-level placements and more than 230 degree-level apprenticeships in programmes including accounting and data analysts.

Recruitment has now started for more than 30 different schemes, from sustainability to engineering, project management to product buying, and warehouse team leaders to health and safety technicians.

This year, Amazon is also launching new programmes including the digital product manager apprenticeship and the commercial procurement and supply apprenticeship. The range of different apprenticeship schemes reflect both Amazon’s diverse workforce and the communities it serves every day across the UK.

As well as offering hundreds of new roles to external candidates, more than half of the new apprenticeships will be offered to existing employees who will have the opportunity to retrain and gain new skills for an exciting new career path. In 2023, two thirds (67%) of new apprentices at Amazon were aged 25 and over, an increase of 10% year on year, which demonstrates the support apprenticeships provide in helping people pursue new careers.

An apprentice who has completed the programme is David Miles, from the Amazon fulfilment centre in Swansea.

David, from Carmarthenshire, works at the Amazon fulfilment centre in Swansea as a health and safety technician. David is a graduate of the Amazon apprenticeship programme, completing a health and safety apprenticeship in September 2023. He has worked at Amazon for almost four years.

“I went to university in 2003 to study computer games development, but it wasn’t the right environment for me. I left university without finishing my degree and stumbled into a job with a pizza company. I progressed through the ranks at the company over 14 years, going from positions in local stores to overseeing the opening of new locations across the UK,” he said.

“I loved my time at the pizza place, but my work-life balance wasn’t what I wanted it to be, so I decided to leave, and I retrained as an electrician.”

David completed his first two years of training at college, where he also picked up a GCSE in English. However, as he was looking for an apprenticeship, he realised that most organisations were looking for young people and he had difficulty finding a suitable role.

“It’s almost impossible to get an apprenticeship as an electrician over the age of 25, so I really struggled. Then COVID happened, and I found out my partner was pregnant. Needing a role quickly, I saw a position at Amazon, and I joined the company. I quickly realised this was a great place to work and I made plans to progress at the site here in Swansea.”

“During my first year, I worked as a proxy for the health and safety team, and I loved it. Around the same time, I saw the apprenticeship opportunity in health and safety, and I thought it sounded like a great opportunity to get a qualification and work at the same time,” David said.

“I thought the Amazon Apprenticeship programme would offer me the opportunity to get more experience in health and safety, so I applied. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made – I had so many opportunities to work alongside teams here in Swansea and in Bristol and Swindon, while getting a qualification and having the chance to implement health and safety programmes that I created.”

The flexibility and work-life balance offered by Amazon is also praised by David. “This is the first role I’ve had that when you’re off, you’re really off,” he said. “I appreciate that – it gives you an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds – at work and at home – and that’s something I’m grateful for.”

Nicola Drury, Head of Skills and Apprenticeships at Amazon, said: “Every year we look forward to recruiting ambitious and enthusiastic apprentices to join our teams working to deliver for customers all over the UK. Whether they’re retraining to begin a new and exciting career, or gaining new skills to take their career in a new direction, we’re proud to provide opportunities for people to find their dream roles.”

Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon said: 

“Apprenticeships are crucial to giving people from all backgrounds the chance to climb the ladder of opportunity while addressing skills gaps and helping to grow our economy.

“So, it is brilliant news that Amazon, one of our Top 100 apprentice employers is continuing to embrace apprenticeships, opening 1000 full time apprentice positions across the UK this year, including over 230 degree apprenticeships.

“Amazon is a world-leading employer – they understand the apprenticeship levy and use it well, and I hope more businesses follow their lead and experience the benefits of apprentices for themselves.”

The 1,000 new apprenticeships highlight Amazon’s ongoing commitment to creating jobs and training opportunities for people across the UK. Once qualified, apprentices will have the opportunity to work across Amazon’s UK sites including fulfilment centres, delivery stations, sortation centres as well as corporate offices in London and Manchester, and four development centres in Cambridge, Edinburgh, London, and Swansea.

Amazon apprentices work across a wide variety of different schemes in hundreds of teams, from software developers in Prime Video, buyers in fashion, and production in Amazon Studios. This year apprentices could be a solutions architect in Amazon Web Services, a marketer in Amazon Music, or work with cutting-edge technology in operations as an engineer.

Since 2021, Amazon has pledged £8m supporting over 400 SMEs with apprenticeships via the apprenticeship levy transfer service. To date, Amazon has supported over 750 apprentices across a wide range of schemes including adult care, data, dental nurses and broadcast production assistants.

In addition to the apprenticeship schemes, Amazon employees can also take advantage of Amazon’s pioneering Career Choice programme, which pre-pays up to 95% of tuition and fees for courses in high-demand fields, up to £8,000 over four years, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon.

Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits and a modern, safe and engaging work environment is provided for its employees. The roles pay a minimum of £11.80 or £12.50 per hour, rising from April to between £12.30 and £13 per hour, depending on location, and up to £33,500 a year for degree-level apprenticeships. All employees also receive a benefits package that includes private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, and an employee discount – which combined are worth thousands annually – as well as a company pension plan.

Amazon has been named as a ‘Top Employer UK 2024’ by the Top Employer Institute, one of the world’s most prestigious certifications in the field of human resources management. This award recognises Amazon’s commitment to the development and well-being of its employees. In addition to the UK accolade, Amazon has also been certified as one of the Top Employers in Europe for the second consecutive year. https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/top-employer-2024

Applications are now open for Amazon’s apprenticeship programme. For more information, visit: www.amazonapprenticeships.co.uk

[1] https://topapprenticeshipemployers.co.uk/files/Top100AE23.pdf

Animals, Job Opportunities, Jobs, News, Recruitment, Recruitment News, Retirement

Homesitters launches campaign to find home and pet sitters to join them in 2024

Homesitters UK, the UK’s leading home and pet sitting company, is on a mission to recruit new homesitters in 2024 to meet increased demand for its service. The company is particularly interested in individuals who are retired or not in full time employment and looking for part time work or people with portfolio careers.

The company wants to attract the growing band of part time workers in the UK. According to analysis Office for National Statistics (ONS) data by Rest Less[i] there has been a 12 per cent increase in over 50s working part time in the last two years, a 26 per cent rise in the last decade and a 56 per cent increase since 2003. Two thirds of people (66 per cent) who were still working past 65 were part time, as well as 40 per cent of people aged 60-64.

Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters said: “2024 is set to be a busy year for us. People are travelling again, there has been a huge growth in pet ownership since Covid and demand for our services has risen. We want to hire couples and single people interested in a part time, flexible role that gives people a sense of purpose, a chance to spend time with animals as well as opportunities to travel and boost their income.

“January is always busy with applications but this year we expect this to hit new levels as older people want to continue working to help with cost-of-living challenges. Homesitters are employed directly by us and benefit from the safety net that comes with working with a trusted company, including comprehensive insurance and 24/7 support for people when they are on assignments.”

 

Homesitting couple Tim and Rosey Mackervoy, both 60 years old, were introduced to home and pet sitting two years ago and couldn’t be happier with their decision to embrace this flexible job.  When Tim’s 40-year career in the construction industry came to an end in 2021, and Rosey, a former child minder, decided to step back from work as well, they were excited by the prospect of starting a new chapter homesitting to keep busy in retirement.

Tim says, “We have stayed in some beautiful places, from Grade II listed properties to new and modern homes, and looked after some incredible pets and had lots of fun doing it. Homesitters check in with us when we are on assignment and always arrange preliminary meetings with clients which we find really useful, so we know exactly how the house works and the pets’ routines before we start.”

The Mackervoys are both animal lovers who have owned two border collies and two cats in the past, but they felt that the timing wasn’t right to commit to owning more pets.

Rosey says, “We now have the opportunity to stay in new places we would never have thought to visit. We miss having our own pets, but doing this job we still can enjoy taking care of animals, which we love. It’s a really great way to get the best of both worlds.

Discussing the other perks of homesitting, Tim says, “We also make savings working as homesitters and have seen lower bills due to our time away on assignments.”

Tim calls their homesitting earnings their ‘pocket money,’ emphasising that all the money they make goes towards paying for their annual holiday.

For Tim and Rosey, homesitting isn’t just a way to fill their time; it’s a lifestyle that combines adventure, animal companionship, and financial benefits.

Homesitters is keen to hear from people interested in home and pet sitting. Ideal candidates are responsible and reliable people, who are good listeners, and will be sensitive to clients’ requirements. Proven pet-care skills and a genuine affinity for animals are also a bonus.

For more information and to apply to become a homesitter visit: www.homesitters.co.uk

Animals, Job Opportunities, Jobs, News, Recruitment, Recruitment News, Retirement

Business is booming for Homesitters Ltd – recruitment drive for 2024

Homesitters UK, the UK’s leading home and pet sitting company, is on a mission to recruit new homesitters in 2024 to meet increased demand for its service. The company is particularly interested in individuals who are retired or not in full time employment and looking for part time work or people with portfolio careers.

The company wants to attract the growing band of part time workers in the UK. According to analysis Office for National Statistics (ONS) data by Rest Less[i] there has been a 12 per cent increase in over 50s working part time in the last two years, a 26 per cent rise in the last decade and a 56 per cent increase since 2003. Two thirds of people (66 per cent) who were still working past 65 were part time, as well as 40 per cent of people aged 60-64.

Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters said: “2024 is set to be a busy year for us. People are travelling again, there has been a huge growth in pet ownership since Covid and demand for our services has risen. We want to hire couples and single people interested in a part time, flexible role that gives people a sense of purpose, a chance to spend time with animals as well as opportunities to travel and boost their income.

“January is always busy with applications but this year we expect this to hit new levels as older people want to continue working to help with cost-of-living challenges. Homesitters are employed directly by us and benefit from the safety net that comes with working with a trusted company, including comprehensive insurance and 24/7 support for people when they are on assignments.”

Homesitting couple Tim and Rosey Mackervoy, both 60 years old, were introduced to home and pet sitting two years ago and couldn’t be happier with their decision to embrace this flexible job.  When Tim’s 40-year career in the construction industry came to an end in 2021, and Rosey, a former child minder, decided to step back from work as well, they were excited by the prospect of starting a new chapter homesitting to keep busy in retirement.

Tim says, “We have stayed in some beautiful places, from Grade II listed properties to new and modern homes, and looked after some incredible pets and had lots of fun doing it. Homesitters check in with us when we are on assignment and always arrange preliminary meetings with clients which we find really useful, so we know exactly how the house works and the pets’ routines before we start.”

The Mackervoys are both animal lovers who have owned two border collies and two cats in the past, but they felt that the timing wasn’t right to commit to owning more pets.

Rosey says, “We now have the opportunity to stay in new places we would never have thought to visit. We miss having our own pets, but doing this job we still can enjoy taking care of animals, which we love. It’s a really great way to get the best of both worlds.

Discussing the other perks of homesitting, Tim says, “We also make savings working as homesitters and have seen lower bills due to our time away on assignments.”

Tim calls their homesitting earnings their ‘pocket money,’ emphasising that all the money they make goes towards paying for their annual holiday.

For Tim and Rosey, homesitting isn’t just a way to fill their time; it’s a lifestyle that combines adventure, animal companionship, and financial benefits.

Homesitters is keen to hear from people interested in home and pet sitting. Ideal candidates are responsible and reliable people, who are good listeners, and will be sensitive to clients’ requirements. Proven pet-care skills and a genuine affinity for animals are also a bonus.

For more information and to apply to become a homesitter visit: www.homesitters.co.uk

Disability at work, Finance and Banking, Job Opportunities, Jobs, News

Evenbreak invite disabled candidates to an exclusive ‘Meet the Sector’ Financial Service Webinar

Evenbreak, the world’s first global disability job board for disabled people and run by disabled people, is inviting disabled candidates to a webinar to hear how diversity helps to support the financial sectors. Representatives from Invesco, Fidelity International and M&G will talk about their organisations and how they support disabled employees. Candidates are invited to explore the roles available within these organisations.

This exclusive event held 16.11.23, from 12.30pm until 1.50pm will see the panellists myth bust your impressions of the financial sector, reveal more about core roles in HR, marketing and sales, tech, insurance security and many more. There will also be a panel discussion with financial sector representatives who will share their inclusive recruitment practices followed by breakout sessions offering candidates the opportunity to find out how they can thrive within the finance sector.

Evenbreak’s The Meet The Sector Financial Sector panellist include:

Invesco

  • Andrea Hammond (EMEA Talent Acquisition Manager)
  • Laura Ladd (Legal and Company Secretarial Admin Assistant)

Fidelity International

  • Yvette De Souza – Early Careers Global Senior Programme Manager
  • Stephanie Marshall – EMEA Head of Talent Acquisition

M&G

  • Mark McLane – Director of Diversity and Inclusion
  • Emily Northcott – Asset Management Recruiter
  • Suzie Threlfall – Asset Management Recruiter
  • Sasha Riar – Apprenticeship Manager

Candidates are invited to join Evenbreak and find out how their skills can support the organisations that help to create, grow and the UK’s financial services industry.

Registration is free to Meet the Sector and could find the perfect new role that suits the talents of candidates. Register your place here.