The VMH family has been growing, and we recently welcomed new Admin Assistant, Emma Howie-Smith, to HQ in Sibbald Walk. Time to find out a bit more about her!
What was your first job when you left school?
“I had a few! From a local picture framing shop when I was at school to M&S through University but the one I look back on with the most fondness was the Herald & Post paper round I did with my sister which makes me feel very old!
“We used to load the papers up into the back of my dad’s car and he would drive us around the streets of Edinburgh as we jumped in and out of the boot trying to get the papers delivered as fast as we could! No seat belts, just holding on for dear life. I think one week we got £12 and we were delighted!”
Has there been one person who has particularly inspired your career?
“I’m extremely fortunate to have a strong support network around me encouraging me to give things a go, often opting to take the path less travelled. My mum always said to me, growing up, ‘you are loveable and capable’ and that’s always stuck with me. She’s always been there cheering on every single one of my achievements, no matter how small and for that reason I will never underestimate the power of someone believing in you.”
What led you to working at VMH Solicitors?
“After the obligatory ‘gap year’ as a fresh faced and fearless 18-year-old I went on to study Politics at Edinburgh Uni before doing a Masters in Broadcast Journalism at Cardiff Uni.
“After moving back to Scotland where my then boyfriend, now husband, was based I started working in Marketing for a big sportswear brand. The ethos of this company – combined with my passion for health and fitness – was the springboard into becoming a yoga teacher.
“Fast forward ten years and I now get to share the joy of yoga with all kinds of people in all different settings. From workplaces to schools, studios to private sessions at home, it rarely feels like a job. It was through our weekly ‘yoga in the workplace’ sessions that got me into working with VMH on a more regular basis and I’ve now been working with the firm for over a year.”
What’s best about working at VMH Solicitors?
“What I value most about working at VMH is the people. They’re friendly, down to earth and have welcomed me into the team with open arms. Despite my slightly alternative route into VMH, I feel genuinely trusted in my role and I continue to learn so much from my time there.”
Outside of work, what are your interests?
“I have two wonderful energetic little boys, aged four and seven, who keep me on my toes! They are typical little boys who rarely sit still or stop asking questions! One minute we’re building a den, the next we are dressing up. Between that and being the taxi service to all their various activities, it’s a full-time job!
“When I do find some time between VMH commitments and my busy yoga teaching schedule I love to run and can often be found up Blackford Hill taking in the views and enjoying the peace up there.”
Tell us about the VMH Yoga class you take on Thursdays?
“The class has been going for well over a year and we have an incredibly committed core group who attend every week. The sessions are inclusive, supportive and fun and certainly not about how bendy you are! And no, you do not have to be able to touch your toes or stand on your head to do yoga. It’s an opportunity to observe your thoughts and move your body without judgment. It’s a great mid-week reset.”