We’re celebrating 20 years of Adele Adams Associates

Adele founded Adele Adams Associates in 2003. As we’re in our 20th year of business, we asked her ‘How did Adele Adams Associates begin?’

What prompted you to start Adele Adams Associates?

I have a degree in food science and had worked in technical roles in food manufacturing for a while before I moved into training and consultancy working for Verner Wheelock Associates. I enjoyed my time there and learnt a lot. But it was time to move on, and I was getting excited about developing my own brand.

I thought “Am I brave enough to do this on my own?” I decided I was, and I gave it a go and have never looked back!

How did Adele Adams Associates begin?

It all started from the spare bedroom in my house with literally a desk, a computer, and a printer. It was just me. I had to use the spare bed as both the filing cabinet and work surface for assembling courses!

It’s safe to say I didn’t get many visitors during that time!

What challenges did you initially face and how did you overcome them?

Initially, my biggest challenge was confidence. It was a big risk leaving a secure role to start up all on my own. But I had loads of encouragement and an amazing support system which I’m very grateful for.

Then it was all about the marketing and getting the word out. I already had good industry connections which meant when the ball got rolling the momentum just kept gathering and I was soon delivering courses on a regular basis.

What was the most exciting element when starting the business, and has this changed to the present day?

This has always been interacting with the delegates. As a ‘people person’ I’ve always gained such energy from being around people and helping them develop. A lot of our work is repeat clients, meaning I can work with the same people on different courses and watch as they develop their careers and knowledge. I still find this extremely rewarding.

What makes Adele Adams Associates unique?

Our client’s feedback tells me that it is our service levels. We approach work in a personal way. We are not a large corporate (although most of our clients are) so because we are small, we are able to be very agile and maintain our ‘can-do’ attitude.

Our bespoke service also makes us unique. We don’t just deliver something ‘off the shelf,’ but we push further. We ask, how can we create something from a blank piece of paper to address a specific training need?

For us, the answer is yes. What’s the question?

Have a look at our company journey through the last 20 years with our timeline.