Monique Coombes
Mauritius
Summary
Experienced Senior Associate driven to optimise processes and streamline operations for team efficiency. Decisive leader with an analytical and flexible approach to solving problems. Results-driven, organised and dependable candidate, successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Writing Centre Senior Associate
African Leadership University
Mauritius | Rwanda
12.2021 - Current
- Enhanced Writing Centre performance by implementing effective project management strategies and providing consistent guidance.
- Assessed 3000+ students and prospective students' English Proficiency levels using the ALU English Proficiency Test designed by the Writing Centre.
- Streamlined operational efficiency by identifying areas for improvement and proposing actionable solutions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive successful completion of complex projects within deadlines.
- Mentored and trained staff and interns, fostering professional growth and helping them reach their full potential.
- Consistently maintained strong relationships with students and Writing Centre team members, ensuring clear communication and timely updates on project progress.
- Conducted in-depth research to inform decision-making processes and support strategic planning initiatives, specifically pertaining to English Proficiency Assessments.
- Boosted overall team morale by creating a positive work environment and encouraging open communication channels among colleagues.
- Designed and delivered Writing Centre initiatives including workshops and writing competitions, contributing valuable insights based on experience.
- Effectively managed multiple competing priorities.
- Improved collaboration with stakeholders by quickly and effectively addressing inquiries and complaints.
- Identified and resolved complex issues by applying advanced analytical and troubleshooting strategies.
- Prioritised tasks to meet tight deadlines, pitching in to assist others with project duties.
- Created promotional materials to advertise products and services.
- Proofread and edited documents for accuracy and grammar.
Faculty: Leadership Core-Communicating for Impact
African Leadership University
Mauritius
11.2020 - 11.2021
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary curriculum, enhancing students'' understanding of the broader context.
- Streamlined grading processes, reducing time spent on administrative tasks while maintaining accuracy and fairness in evaluations.
- Incorporated diverse teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles, ensuring that all students made progress toward academic goals.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in education and enhance teaching skills.
- Effectively managed classroom resources, optimizing use of materials while minimizing waste.
- Integrated real-world examples into lessons, providing students with a practical understanding of course concepts and their applicability.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by addressing individual student needs and promoting collaboration among peers.
- Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, resulting in clear subject matter discussion with students.
- Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
- Used different learning modes and types of technology to engage students in achieving learning outcomes.
Owner: SharpenUp Tutoring and Learning Support
Self
Cape Town, South Africa
01.2012 - 12.2020
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Expanded product offerings by researching market trends and identifying potential growth opportunities.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service, leading to increased performance levels.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
- Evaluated industry competition regularly to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Oversaw business budget planning and administration, accounting functions, purchasing, and bi-weekly payroll to handle financial needs.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
Lecturer: Teacher Education
Independent Institute Of Education Varsity College
Cape Town, South Africa
01.2017 - 07.2019
- Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methodologies and techniques.
- Promoted collaboration among students through group projects and presentations, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Evaluated student progress through regular assessments, providing detailed feedback for improvement and growth.
- Managed large class sizes effectively, maintaining an orderly learning environment conducive to student success.
- Increased student interest by incorporating relevant, real-world examples into lessons and connecting material to relevant experiences.
- Provided individualized support for struggling learners, using tutoring sessions and additional resources to close achievement gaps.
- Selected and designed lesson plans and curriculum to meet academic objectives.
- Used PowerPoint and Google Classroom technology to give presentations to student classrooms.
- Led seminars and workshops to facilitate student learning and engagement and increase memory retention.
- Utilized distance learning technology to instruct students remotely.
- Evaluated and supervised teaching practicals to provide reports on performance.
- Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
Education
Postgraduate Certificate - Academic Practice
Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow, Scotland07.2023
Master of Arts - Education
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Town, South Africa09.2010
Honours Degree - Community Education And Learning Support
University of Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, South Africa12.2006
Bachelor of Education - Education
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Town, South Africa12.2005
Skills
- Performance Monitoring
- Proficient in Blackboard Canvas
- Team Supervision
- Project Management
- Team Leadership
- Money Handling
- Project Coordination
- Effective communication
- Creative problem-solving
- Time management
- Training and mentoring
- Cross-functional collaboration
Timeline
Writing Centre Senior Associate
African Leadership University
12.2021 - Current
Faculty: Leadership Core-Communicating for Impact
African Leadership University
11.2020 - 11.2021
Lecturer: Teacher Education
Independent Institute Of Education Varsity College
01.2017 - 07.2019
Owner: SharpenUp Tutoring and Learning Support
Self
01.2012 - 12.2020
Postgraduate Certificate - Academic Practice
Glasgow Caledonian University
Master of Arts - Education
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Honours Degree - Community Education And Learning Support
University of Stellenbosch
Bachelor of Education - Education
Cape Peninsula University of Technology