A Northamptonshire-founded business is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year, marking a decade of growth from a home-based startup into a thriving national network.
Alchemy Virtual Assistance (Alchemy VA), founded by local entrepreneur Suzy Sanders in 2016, has grown from a solo venture into a UK-wide business supporting organisations with flexible, outsourced assistance while remaining firmly rooted in Northamptonshire.
Over the past decade, the business has expanded through a franchise model, supporting clients across the UK and building a network of partners from Scotland to London, all while maintaining its headquarters in the county.
To celebrate its 10-year milestone, each Alchemy VA Franchise Partner is curating their own initiative to further spread kindness and positive impact within their local communities through fundraisers, challenges and even donating their time and expertise.
In May Franchise Partner for Wellingborough, Sarah will be hosting a Quiz Night at the Chester House Estate in support of the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and in June Suzy herself will be abseiling down the National Lift Tower in Northampton, raising money for the Lewis Foundation to fund free gifts and support to adults as they go through cancer treatment in hospital and the community across the midlands.
Alchemy VA’s journey began with Suzy working as a virtual assistant herself, before taking on her first associate in 2017 and later expanding into a full team. The business has since gone on to achieve multiple award nominations, industry recognition, and national growth and despite its national reach, Northamptonshire remains central to the business’s identity.
“Northamptonshire is an incredible place to do business,” says founder Suzy Sanders. “We’ve got a strong entrepreneurial community here and a really diverse mix of industries, and there’s been so much investment into the town. It’s been a brilliant base for us to grow from.”
Supporting local business and talent
Alchemy VA has also worked closely with organisations in the county, including partnering with the University of Northampton to deliver funded virtual assistant support to local businesses.
Suzy herself has become a recognised voice in the industry, speaking at national events including The PA Show in London and contributing to the development of the assistant profession.
“I started the business because I didn’t believe people should have to choose between their work and their family,” says Suzy. “That’s still what drives us today, our team, our franchise partners, and our clients are all growing together.”
“Working with Alchemy VA has been such breath of fresh air. The key thing is the way they’ve revolutionised working practices. Sarah and the team have such great technical knowledge and abilities as well as being so honest, transparent and trustworthy.” Dawn Bailham, Psychologist.
As it enters its second decade, Alchemy VA is focused on continuing its sustainable growth, with plans to expand further while maintaining its strong community values.
To find out more about Alchemy VA and their giving-back campaign visit https://www.alchemyva.co.uk/what-s-going-on/a-decade-of-growth-a-year-of-giving/