Alchemy Virtual Assistance welcomes new franchise partner to support growing demand for virtual business support services

Former paralegal, Steph Lunt, is the latest Franchise Partner to join the Alchemy VA team, providing remote admin and PA support to the rising number of entrepreneurs, growing businesses and SMEs in North Staffordshire and beyond.

“Steph’s big, bold career move has come at the ideal time as we’re continuing to see a steady increase in demand for our virtual business support services, both from our existing clients and new connections across the globe. Not only is Steph incredibly supportive, passionate and highly skilled, she’s also laser focused on making a tangible and lasting impact with the businesses she will be working with.” 
Suzy Sanders, Founder & Franchisor’ of Alchemy VA

The desire for flexibility and a better work-life balance is what first motivated Steph to consider self-employment. After the birth of her eldest son, she was inspired by a friend who ran a network marketing business, planting the seed for her own entrepreneurial aspirations. After several years of soul searching and research, she finally decided to take the plunge.

“For a long time, I thought I’d have to completely retrain to be self-employed. The realisation that I could leverage my existing skills as a virtual assistant became a pivotal moment for me and I understood I didn’t need to spend lots of money on training as I could utilise my existing skills.

“I absolutely loved Alchemy’s branding the moment I saw it, strong but not in your face with clear values, integrity and a family-run approach – it just spoke to me. The franchise model really appealed to me as it is tried and tested and has systems already in place, making the transition from employment to self-employment smoother. Alchemy's supportive community of franchise partners also offers a sense of belonging, again another important factor for me when navigating this new journey.

“I’ve had so much support already and even been assigned my own mentor, and Suzy and her husband and MD Paul are always there for any questions I have. I feel part of a team whilst being my own boss.”

Steph's career journey began in the banking industry, where she rose through the ranks from a customer service advisor to a mortgage underwriter. Most recently, she worked as a paralegal in a law firm for five years, handling personal injury, civil matters, and family law. Prior to that, she spent five years as an account manager in the financial management sector, focusing on debt solutions.

Covering North Staffordshire, Steph’s Alchemy VA services will include a wide range of remote personal assistance including email and calendar management, travel arrangements, administrative support, CRM management, research and organisation, lifestyle management, social media management, marketing and much more.

With her experience, Steph is perfectly placed to support professionals in the legal and financial sectors, as well as sole traders and small to medium-sized businesses across a range of industries.

As she takes this significant step, her story serves as an inspiration for others considering a similar path.
“I’m incredibly excited to launch my business and once it’s established, I’d love to grow to the point where I can hire additional team members and provide a flexible work environment for others.”

“Outsourcing to a Virtual Assistant is no longer an entrepreneurs best kept secret as Steph is one of two new franchisees we have taken on this month. From business consultants and coaches, to social media and not for profit organisations, the range of industries requiring our services is on the rise and may reflect the growing need to reduce costs and find an alternative to traditional employment.” 
Suzy Sanders