Highland Council HERO employability scheme is super Inverness business agrees

AN Inverness-based virtual assistant company is reaping the benefits of two new skilled staff members thanks to support from the Highland Council Employability Service’s Hero scheme.

Behind the Scenes VA Ltd was set up by Emma Mulraine in 2018 to provide a quality and affordable support service to start-ups, small businesses and the self-employed.

Though based in Inverness, with modern technology, the company has clients across the globe.

Thanks to the Hero employability scheme Julie McWilliams and Sarah Redgate were taken on, enabling the company to offer an even wider range of services.

Director Ms Mulraine said: “Engaging with the Highland Council Hero scheme has been one of the most beneficial decisions that I’ve made as a business owner since establishing the business.”

Bookkeeper Ms Redgate said: “I was keen to get back into the workforce now that my little boy is in school, but as a lone parent it’s difficult to find a position that fits around my other responsibilities.

“Emma has been fantastic in providing a mix of home and office-based work with flexible working hours.”

Ms McWilliams, who joined as an admin/bookkeeping assistant, said: “The Hero scheme allowed me to secure a role which had potential for growth.

“This experience has provided me with access to courses and coaching along the way, but most importantly it enabled me to regain a career which works around my children.

“Working part-time under Emma offers the perfect balance to manage the unexpected changes which occasionally happen, having young children!”

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