A YOUNG woman from Leigh has made a flying start to her career after securing two promotions in two years.

Sophie Guest joined Warrington-based recruitment consultancy Integra People as an apprentice at the age of 18 in January 2016 working as a payroll administrator.

She started work at the company after completing her A-Levels at college.

Within seven months, Sophie was promoted to a full-time employee and has recently been elevated to the position of recruitment resourcer in the company’s construction division.

Now 21, Sophie, has also just completed an NVQ Level Two in business and administration to continue her development.

She said: “I am so pleased with my progression so far.

"I have already learnt a lot and the business has been very supportive about my goals and enthusiastic about my future.

"My managers have always been understanding when I need time away from my role in relation to my NVQ, and made me feel welcome from the start."

Sophie's rapid progress has impressed her colleagues.

Internal HR officer Greg Higgins said: “Sophie exceeded our expectations by demonstrating her adaptability and eagerness to learn, and she was doing the job just as well as her full-time paid colleagues, therefore it was a natural and deserved progression that she was made a permanent member of staff.

“Sophie then become more confident and competent at dealing with customers, and had an excellent compliancy record.

"These qualities were transferrable and key to performing under the higher pressure role of resourcer."