Meet The Business Centre Team – Dale (our secret musician)

Dale at The Business Centre

There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes of a successful Business Centre and with over 50 businesses in residence at The Business Centre (Cardiff) Ltd, at the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan, it takes a team of talented people to ensure the smooth running of its’ Serviced Offices, Conference and Meeting room facilities. An important member of this team is Dale, who joined The Business Centre family over 3-months ago and has quickly learnt the ropes. We recently took Dale away from his busy day and over a cuppa at Mel’s Café, at The Business Centre, we found out a bit more about Dale and his varied job as Conference Coordinator, not to mention to discover that he is a talented musician!

Tell us a little about your job? Who do you work with, what does your job involve?

I assist Emma, the Centre Manager, with various operations regarding invoicing, enquiries and other administrative tasks linked to the many businesses who reside at The Business Centre. As Conference Coordinator I also oversee bookings for meeting rooms, tend to the presentation of the spaces and ensure the requirements of conference attendees are met. I also liaise with a range of contractors to provide general upkeep and maintenance for the entire building. When required I also offer administration support to our in-house clients.

What does a standard day look like for you?

Each day can vary quite dramatically. It all depends on the amount of conferences or meetings taking place, whether or not there is maintenance required in the building and if there are any issues or concerns with clients that need to be attended to. However, without fail, I conduct thorough building checks regarding maintenance, security and hygiene on a daily basis. I am also required to assist reception for an hour each day by covering phone calls whilst lunch breaks are taking place.

What brought you to The Business Centre? What were you doing before joining the team here?

Before I joined The Business Centre I attended music college in Bristol for three years. I also played various pub and bar gigs as a drummer in and around Wales. After concluding a small music tour around England and Wales with my band Monico Blonde, I wanted to get myself a more ‘regular’ job and was lucky enough to be referred to The Business Centre by a relative who knew that they were looking for a new assistant to join them.

What’s your favourite thing about working at The Business Centre?

My favourite thing about working here is the variety of roles; there’s always something to do and I never find myself feeling bored. The fact that every day is different also helps to break up the week. I was surprised with how quickly I got to know the rest of the team and how comfortable I feel working along-side everyone.

If you weren’t at The Business Centre what would your dream job be?

If I wasn’t at The Business Centre, I would most likely be playing music still, be it teaching, studio recording or live performance. I have approximately 16 years of experience practicing the drums and I have been performing live since the age of 14.

How do you unwind and relax outside of work?

Outside of work I spend a lot of time rehearsing with bands and playing gigs in Cardiff and around Wales, which may not be entirely relaxing, but it does keep me happy. When I do find that I have the evening off, I strive to spend time with my friends.

For anyone wanting to change career path as you did, what advice would you give them?

Try to remain open-minded and be willing to try new things; my 15-year old self wouldn’t have entertained the possibility of working in an interesting job by day whilst getting to play music by night. Try to be approachable and helpful. Strive to be dedicated, yet flexible enough to keep your options open.

Posted on: 20th Jul 2018