Laura Catchesides

If I were to appear on Mastermind and had to choose a specialist subject, it would have to be Richard Kleiner, our CEO! Having supported Richard for so many years, it sometimes feels like we’re either joined at the hip or we’ve developed telepathic tendancies.

To me, providing one-to-one support and taking care of the wider firm through my office manager duties is more than just a job. I genuinely care about providing the best possible service at all times. Whether it’s being that first port of call for clients, or in my general administrative duties as a PA, I always try to pull out all the stops to deliver. In addition to providing traditional secretarial support such as diary management, organising meetings and travel, letter writing and meeting minutes, I also take care of the City office’s facilities requirements and manage the administrative team.

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing the firm evolve from being a small practice of approximately 60 partners and staff to a flourishing mid-size firm and I’m proud to have played a part in its development. Whilst my role has changed over the years in accordance with changing general working and accounting practices, I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the firm go from strength to strength and supporting both clients and internal teams along the way.

If you’re interested…

I joined Gerald Edelman as an office junior in 1999 and over the years have taken on various administrative positions before becoming Richard’s personal assistant. The variety that my role brings keeps me constantly on my toes and I am continually learning as the business and accounting arenas change.

What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done?

Accept the role as Richard’s PA – that was pretty daring!

What one piece of advice would you give your 10-year-old self?

Don’t be in such a hurry to grow up – there’s plenty of time to be an adult, enjoy your childhood while you can.

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?

My Grandad Fred – he fought with the Canadians during the D-day landings. When I was a child I didn’t fully appreciate all the war stories he would tell us, but now I understand the role he played in our country’s history and I would love the opportunity to listen to his stories again.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I’ve always wanted my twin sister and I to share the power of telepathy – imagine the fun we would have!