A Birmingham PA has been recognised at a prestigious London ceremony that aims to celebrate the best in the business. Laura Nelson, from PR agency EAST VILLAGE., was named ‘Newcomer of the Year’ at the inaugural Miss Jones PA Awards last week.

The awards, which took place at The Andaz Hotel, recognised PAs from across the UK in five categories. Laura, who joined EAST VILLAGE. earlier this year, was the only winner from the Midlands, walking away with the coveted ‘Newcomer of the Year’ title.

“I still can’t quite believe that I won – I’m in shock! I was happy just being nominated alongside such incredible PAs and EAs, but to win really is a dream come true! I absolutely love what I do and being invited to join top London PAs at the event was a chance to shout about just how great it is living and working in Birmingham. I am so delighted with the win, and want to thank Tara and the team at EAST VILLAGE. for believing in me,” Laura comments.

Having spent six years as PA to the Director at UK Fire Protection, Laura joined EAST VILLAGE. as PA to Managing Director, Tara Tomes, in the summer. As part of her role, Laura supports the six-strong team, based in the heart of Colmore Business District, with office management, operations, HR, finance and client accounts.

Speaking about her PA’s win at the Miss Jones PA Awards, Tara Tomes comments:

“Since joining the team, Laura has been an absolute force to be reckoned with! Her efficiency, passion for the role and constant determination means that no task is too big or small. It’s the first PA that I’ve ever had and she’s absolutely fantastic; making sure that I’m where I need to be, the team is always supported, and that everything is in order. Laura really is the dream PA and I’m so delighted that she’s been recognised for her incredible drive!”

The Miss Jones PA Awards were launched by Lisa Boissel, founder of Miss Jones, London’s leading executive network. The platform aims to provide professionals with a one-stop-shop that gives access to leading venues and suppliers across London, as well as a chance to connect with fellow PAs.

This win comes at the end of a year when EAST VILLAGE. has celebrated a number of team successes, most recently being named ‘PR & Marketing Agency of the Year’ at the City of Birmingham Business Awards in October and, earlier in the year, ‘PR Agency of the Year’ at the SME News Awards. Added to that, EAST VILLAGE.’s account manager, Hattie D’Souza, was also listed in the coveted Birmingham Live ’30 Under 30’ list earlier this year and received nominations for ‘Best Employee’ at this year’s English Women’s Awards and City of Birmingham Business Awards.