Client Case Study - Virtual Assistant Support for The Association of Dental Groups
THE CHALLENGE
Neil Carmichael is Executive Chair of the Association of Dental Groups (ADG) and Chief Executive Officer of UK China Education Cooperation (UCEC). He is an Honorary Professor, University College London, with a focus on education through the Institute of Education and the Global Business School for Healthcare.
To say that Neil’s workload, responsibilities and commitments are vast and demanding would be an understatement.
Neil had considered the support of a Virtual Assistant to help him be in the right places, at the right time, in the right frame of mind for a while. But amongst much bigger projects and responsibilities, it simply hadn’t been a priority. Until a member of the ADG suggested Alchemy Virtual Assistance could be the ideal solution to their unrelenting administrative challenges.
The ADG has people spanning the length and breadth of the country, all working remotely with no central physical office. With a large volume of members, partners, groups and other stakeholders, the logistics, planning, communication and coordination of crucial events was a very real, incredibly time-consuming headache and undeniable practical burden.
Beyond the ADG’s needs, Neil’s diary and schedule was an ever moving and challenging beast. From an initial introductory call with Virtual Assistant Franchise Partner Laura Barley, Neil knew he was in safe hands. As all good leaders do, Neil instantly picked up on Laura’s natural abilities and valuable skills, as well has her friendly style and professional tone.
THE IMPACT
On a personal level, Laura carefully ensures that Neil is always in the right place at the right time through vigilant and proactive diary management. That level of practical support is worth its weight in gold. Beyond this, Laura has become the personified version of a ‘central office’ – a valuable and trusted support line for the whole organisation. Laura attentively and efficiently manages the logistics, planning, communication and smooth running of the group’s events. She always pitches in helpful ideas and informed suggestions when needed. Her professional experience, local knowledge and attention to detail are truly valued and has directly contributed to the Association’s growing reputation for hosting prestigious and industry leading events.
Neil shares a recent example of the Association’s event at the House of Commons – quite possibly the most significant event in the group’s calendar. The venue itself, also as significant, naturally requires an enhanced level of procedure, planning, care and consideration. With the volume of members so high, this all adds up to present quite a complex logistical challenge! One that Laura carefully, professionally and enthusiastically takes in her gentle and wise stride. From beginning to end completely, capturing all the ‘small’ details in between such as timely and appropriate invites, attendee information and wider agenda structure.
Neil states that Laura’s involvement has directly contributed to and accelerated both the reputation and the Association’s culture – two things that all good business leaders know the intricacies and magnitude of.
THE RECOMMENDATION
When reflecting on what makes Alchemy VA and the ADG work so well together, Neil states that it’s a clear partnership with Laura. The working relationship has been fostered around a strong team focus, communication, trust and shared values.
When asked what Neil would have done without Alchemy VA’s support, he teased that he would have simply panicked! But in truth, Neil recognises that he always finds solutions. But the support Laura provides has excelled and exceeded his expectations.
What advice would Neil share with anyone considering working with Laura?
“You can be absolutely certain that Laura would do a brilliant job. She is friendly, imaginative, trusted and incredibly efficient.”
THE CAUSE
TThe Association of Dental Groups (ADG) is the UK trade association representing 28 large and smaller dental groups across the UK. The ADG represents more than 10,000 clinicians and 2,000 practices.
Working together, the ADG advocates and represents members’ interests with policy makers and opinion formers to raise standards and support the delivery of high-quality, consistent dental care for NHS, private and community-based patients.
Dentistry in the UK is a ‘mixed economy’ and the ADG represents their dental groups’ interests with regulators and commissioners, to ensure that regulation supports and responds to the changing needs of the sector.
The ADG is involved in policy development, encouraging policy makers to make evidence-based decisions. They voice their members’ views in consultation submissions and wider policy development activity.
WHAT NEXT?
1. Not sure if you're 'ready' for a Virtual Assistant? Why not take our FREE Virtual Assistant ‘readiness’ evaluation?
2. For any support or advice about how to best leverage the support of an Alchemy Virtual Assistant, you can connect with Laura Barley here.
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