Introducing: Fiona Ibbetson
Company name: GetAheadVA
Company website: https://yorkandharrogate.getaheadva.com/
Social Media: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram

Many businesses have embraced virtual working over the last year, so we caught up with Fiona Ibbetson of GetAheadVA, who digitally connects you with professionals to take on the tasks you can’t or don’t want to do, freeing up time to do the ones you do…

When was the company founded and how has it grown?

GetAheadVA is an outsourcing specialist providing flexible support such as admin duties and marketing services for individuals and business owners.

I started the Leeds franchise in 2018 and we now work with more than 16 virtual assistants across the business, seven of who are based in Yorkshire. 

Why do you stand out from your competition?

We are different from other virtual assistant services because instead of just offering generalist support, we have a wide team of experts to pull in. 

For example, if you need bookkeeping, we have qualified accountants; if you need marketing services, we have experienced copywriters and social media professionals. 

How has Covid affected your business and how did you cope?

It’s been interesting to see other people realise that you don’t need to work in an office to get a job done – as this is how we’ve always worked. 

Who would you most like to have a drink with and why?

The Queen. She’s seen so much change and I’d love to know if she had anything to do with Diana. Of course, I wouldn’t dare ask her that to her face! 

What advice would you give the next generation starting their careers?

Not to worry about the career choices they make now thinking they’ll be stuck with them forever. 

I have a degree in Civil Engineering that I’ve never used so I believe we don’t have to be defined by choices we make early on. 

A career is not set in stone and you can change what you do at any point.

Why do you like doing business in Yorkshire?

Our teams in the south love working with us in the north. They say we’re approachable, friendly and down to earth.

Leeds is becoming a digital centre and York and Harrogate are stunningly beautiful. 

I love that Yorkshire is diverse but still has a fantastic sense of community. I feel lucky to work here.

What’s next for your business?

I’ve just launched GetAheadVA in Harrogate and York so I want to get to know people based there and let them know we’re here to help. 

Name your favourite local business and explain what makes them special.

This would have to be ‘She Loves’ – a luxury membership club that offers discounts across York and Harrogate. Tricia Sherriff who set it up is keen to support local businesses and independent retailers, which I love.

Would you like to feature your business in the Your Harrogate Business Focus? Email Claire Strachan (claire@clairestrachan.co.uk) for your chance to get involved.

Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.