Get to know… Leena Lais

What do you do at MRG?

I am Executive Assistant to Ben Duffill, although my role offers support to the rest of the team and business also. Overall, it’s my job to provide the maximum assistance to Ben in the management of campaigns, from back-office administration and candidate management to research and resourcing.

What are you most proud about that you have achieved in your career to date?  

Despite winning awards during my time at MRG, I am most proud to be supporting a team that not only survived during one of the biggest economic down-turns, as a result of Covid-19, but came out stronger and more dynamic than ever before.

How did you get into Public Sector Estates Management recruitment and why? 

Joining MRG as an Executive Assistant was a natural career move for me. I wanted to work behind the scenes and have an active involvement in the recruitment cycle as I am experienced in how this works. My background was in recruitment so I felt my previous role would assist me.

What energises you about working in this sector?

Knowing that my role helps support consultants fill posts where the candidates will have a significant impact on large-scale outcomes, such as the running of estates and knowing the effects will be widespread. It gives me a great deal of personal satisfaction to develop and maintain relationships with candidates within the scope of my role and that their experience is positive from start to finish.

What is the biggest thing that’s changed in recruitment since you started?

We have recently experienced huge change in the way businesses operate. For example, flexible working arrangements are now commonplace.

What do you think the biggest misconception people have about you is?

My age, everyone always seems shocked when I tell them how old I really am.

What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?

In 2004, I won the Sports Girl of the Year award at school – there is a plaque in my honour, which my niece recently told me is still there to this day!!! Given my tendency to avoid exercise/sports and anything remotely good for me this will shock some folks (it still shocks me).

What’s the best advice anyone has ever given you?

Live by the golden rule.

What three words would your colleagues use to describe you?

Focused, loyal, trustworthy.

And finally, who would play you in the movie about your life?

A cross between Nicole Scherzinger and Pocahontas.

 

Get in touch with Leena for an informal chat about how MRG can help you and your recruitment needs.

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