Esti Alberts

• Create and provide support in writing, editing, formatting, and proofreading well-crafted, formal contract notices to clients, contractors and other service providers.
• Create and submit monthly progress claims, including Lump Sum items and variations to contract. Process sub-contractor claims, monthly invoices, and business expenses.
• Contribute as a member of the project team, focused on the successful running of projects.
• Advise senior management on matters requiring attention and implementing their decisions.
• Work closely with Program and Project Managers to provide expertise in financial reporting, controlling, and assist in managing the financial performance of projects.
• Assist Project Managers with forecasting and accruals, and meeting project budget requirements .
• Collect and analyze data associated with projects undertaken, manage project information
• Effectively monitor and control the financial performance of projects
• Manage project closeout process, assist with resolving issues prior to release of final payment. Liaise with subcontractors
• Develop and maintain organizational systems and documentation traceability. Manage multiple contract databases
• Use various business systems, including Vision, WRIKE, SAP etc. and Microsoft Office, to assist with administration requirements
• Assist the Contract Manager and Contract Director as needed, handling tasks such as preparing board papers and project reporting.
• Schedule and attend project, client and Board meetings, take minutes, track changes, prepare presentations and Board papers

About First Resorts: Managing agents for over 60 properties locally and internationally, offering a wide variety of accommodation and conferencing options for both business and leisure travelers. A division of First Group, a private company serving customers throughout South Africa, the United Kingdom and Europe, and employs over 2,500 highly trained personnel, linked worldwide by sophisticated networks.

I worked alongside the Operations Director, learning everything there was to know about his job and filling in wherever possible. The Director was frequently traveling to different resorts and companies, and I was in charge of handling any issues that arose and consulted with the Director if I needed assistance. This job was completed entirely independently because I was able to handle the majority of inquiries, complaints, and so on. I thrived in this high-pressure, deadline-driven, team-oriented environment before leaving the company to immigrate to New Zealand. Daily tasks included, but were not limited to:

• Calendar and meeting management
• Liaise with various industry agencies such as the EAAB (Estate Agency Affairs Board) and NAMA (National Association of Managing Agents).
• Manage Team and ensure that deadlines were met
• Coordination between General Managers, Regional Managers, Directors and Head Office employees
• Control of large volume statutory documents of various resorts and/or companies and owners
• Assist with marketing, media and attend to general administration
• Travel arrangements, including full itinerary with accommodation and flight bookings
• Meeting coordination (i.e. agendas, preparation of meeting packs and various documentation, minutes)
• Communication with over 60 Board of Directors, and travel management for various meetings across the country for Directors
• Liaising and relationship building with guests and owners

About Chester Wholesale Meat:

One of the largest meat wholesalers in South Africa, the company supplies all the major chain stores, including a vast variety of meat retailers, ship chandlers and other wholesale meat traders.

As the Financial Directors' Assistant, I would be in charge of a wide range of activities at all times, including insurance, fleet management support, account reconciliations, and more.

I worked incredibly hard to make this role a success and relished the daily challenges, as each day was different.

At times, I served as executive assistant to various Directors, including the Managing Director.

I was in charge of handling significant accounts such as labor hire firm accounts and insurance accounts. I put in place a variety of control systems at this company.

I left the company to spend time with my newborn.

This was a "break-away" firm formed by Willoughby and Braithwaite's former directors and staff. This company was an insurance company that primarily focused on employee pension and provident funds. Although everyone worked hard to make this company a success, the business closed its doors in May 2011.

Responsibilities included

• Assessing new and existing funds,
• Obtaining risk quotes from insurers,
• Generating investment quotes,
• Forwarding schedules to fund administrators,
• Assisting Executives with travel plans and managing their schedules,
• Collating and drafting media and marketing papers,
• Handling banking and payroll
• Other general Executive and business support as required

This was a new company formed by insurance industry professionals. Various insurance products were offered, and everyone worked hard to ensure the company's success. Responsibilities included:

• Company setup (company initiation)
• Late Estates (Obtain information for the death notice, Inventory, Affidavits, Executor, Acceptance of Executor, Notice to creditors in deceased estates)
• HR Function (Staff deduction remuneration (PAYE, SITE, UIF)
• Other general duties

• Maintain and create great wine and cocktail lists, menu planning
• Staff recruitment, rostering, training, and monitoring
• Worked with Management to accomplish revenue targets.
• Manage cash, products, and equipment.
• Inventory audits, stock ordering, and beverage stocktaking
• Meeting with other kitchen and service personnel to plan functions.
• Understanding the budget and establishing achievement goals in each area of operation;
• Optimizing overheads and labor expenses through staff allocation
• Monitoring and ensuring that all areas of operation are in compliance with food and hygiene requirements
• Reporting on the operation and results to senior management as needed

My tenure as a waitress on a cruise ship offered me the unique chance to traverse the globe, immerse myself in a variety of cultures, and hone my communication skills. This experience fostered a global perspective and a deep understanding of diverse people and cultures, the life lessons I acquired during this period have proven to be invaluable for my future endeavors.

From a young age, I was able to assume a managerial role, thanks to the diverse work experience I gained during my school years. This included various roles in the restaurant industry and even a position at the SPCA. In my managerial capacity, I oversaw all facets of daily business operations, encompassing budgeting, staffing, scheduling, inventory management, customer service, and sales. I conducted training for employees on their responsibilities, as well as company policies and procedures, and handled the recruitment process, conducting interviews and hiring competent staff for available positions. I left the role to pursue further overseas travelling.