Get To Know Michelle Crump! 💬
We are thrilled to bring you the next edition of Bloom’s ‘Get To Know’ series, a chance to hear from the remarkable people who help Bloom run smoothly and continue to evolve. Through this series of short interviews, we learn more about people’s professional and personal journeys.
The next person we had the chance to interview was Michelle Crump, our Office Manager. As the person who keeps the office running efficiently and the team on track, Michelle shares her pathway into the industry, how she got to where she is today, and some key insights into what is expected within her role.
Be sure to check it out! 👇
Can you tell us about your career journey and what led you to your current role at Bloom?
“Fresh out of college as a qualified Junior Secretary, I secured my first job working for the Publisher at a local newspaper, where I stayed for almost 17 years.
I then moved to the West End as an Office Administrator within a marketing agency, where I progressed to Office Manager.
In 2019, I left my advertising background of 23 years and moved into construction. Having no previous experience in this area, I initially found it challenging, particularly when interviewing against candidates with years of knowledge and experience. However, I was given an opportunity to join a company in the City in early 2020, a position that continued until it ended due to restructuring in 2024.
Gareth then reached out and shared his plans and ideas for Bloom and asked if I would like to join the team. For me, it was a no-brainer; I accepted before the meeting had even ended.”
What does a typical day look like for you, and what are the key responsibilities you oversee?
“A typical day for me can change at a moment’s notice, so it’s about being ready for the unexpected, which is what I enjoy about working in administration. While there are tasks that need to be completed within set timeframes, the role is very varied, and no two days are the same.
My key responsibilities include supporting the team, generating invoices, ensuring our accounts system is kept up to date and paying suppliers.”
Communication and organisation are key in your role. How do you manage competing priorities and maintain efficiency in a busy environment?
“It comes down to strong communication and organisational skills, being transparent, and ensuring I fully understand what is required and by when. I also make sure I clarify priorities where needed and always work to agreed deadlines to maintain efficiency in a busy environment.”
In your opinion, what is the most important quality or skill to have when working in a role like yours, and why?
“I believe the most important qualities in a role like mine are the ability to remain calm under pressure and stay organised. Everyone feels the strain at times, but it’s about knowing how to manage that pressure effectively.
I’ve also found that being observant and having a strong memory is a real advantage. The things I can remember sometimes make me laugh, often it’s the simplest details that prove most useful. It allows others to focus on their own responsibilities, while I can step in from time to time with reminders and support when needed.”
What do you enjoy most about working in an office management role, and what motivates you day to day?
“For me, it is knowing that I am approachable and will listen to, help, and advise any member of the team.
Collaborating with a talented team of individuals who value and respect, encourage, and support each other is something you do not often see within an office environment.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received throughout your career, and how has it helped shape the way you approach your day-to-day?
“There are a few pieces of advice that have stayed with me throughout my career:
“Do not put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”
Always greet others with a firm handshake, no half-hearted efforts. You would be surprised how many people remember you simply by your handshake.
And finally, no question is ever a silly question. This is something I strongly believe in. Never be afraid to ask questions; even to this day, I am always asking them.”
What’s one Professional goal you’re aiming to achieve?
“Professionally, one of my goals this year is to become a Mental Health First Aider.”
What’s on Personal goal you’re aiming to achieve?
“Being more than halfway through my career, for me, it is about ‘doing what you love and loving what you do,’ and since joining Bloom, this has very much become my mantra.
Personally, there is still a lot of the world I would like to see.”
Outside of work, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy, and how do you like to spend your time away from the office?
“I love going to the theatre, usually with my dad, that is our thing. I am also always off to one concert or another.
I love to travel and have been fortunate enough to experience many parts of the world, from visiting European countries to travelling to the Caribbean. I have also visited Russia. Along the way, I have climbed the Nohoch Mul Pyramid in Coba, Mexico, hiked Mount Vesuvius, and walked to the Hollywood Sign.”