Growing businesses and those that have been downsizing in the recession both need one thing — decent administrative support. Small firms often cannot afford a full-time role but need back-up as and when required, while a shrinking company may decide to cut back on secretarial staff.

In either case AVA Secretarial can help. Set up by Alexandra Llewellyn from her home in Horley, Banbury, she has deliberately positioned herself to offer a helping hand to firms on an ad hoc basis.

Ms Llewellyn, 29, (pictured) explained: “It is something I have thought about for years but now I think the time is right.

“In the current economic climate a lot of people are being laid off, but the work is still there and someone like me can help with that.”

So, in January, Ms Llewellyn set up the business and the start up costs were minimal.

“It’s just myself and a lap top. I put together a basic website and had some cards printed. A good friend helped me out and now the website has had a professional upgrade.”

To help market the business, Ms Llewellyn attended a range of networking meetings and she developed a range of contacts as well as building a portfolio of regular clients.

Her main client is catering firm Indulgence, based near Banbury, where she helps out with event management and general office administration. She also has a further six firms that she offers support to as, and when needed.

Her skills are broad as as she worked for ten years with a range of small to medium-sized companies and also had a stint at Aston Martin.

Now she is enjoying the variety of work she is receiving, as well as being able to make up her own hours.

“I am thoroughly enjoying it — the work is very challenging but rewarding and setting up the company has been a real achievement for me.

“It was such a great feeling when I landed my first client.”

Now she is looking to continue to build her clientelle to the point where she can take on staff and develop the business onto the next level.

Contact: AVA Secretarial 07976 096150.

Web: www.avasecretarial.co.uk