In this Mason & Dale case study, we interviewed Megan Stiles to explore her journey from Executive Assistant to Business Operations Manager, uncovering how she expanded her role, influenced strategy, and championed sustainability across OryxAlign.
What was your role and mindset when you first joined OryxAlign as an Executive Assistant?
When I first joined OryxAlign as an Executive Assistant, my mindset was focused on adding value through organisation, efficiency, and building strong working relationships. I saw the role as an opportunity to understand the business from the inside out and to create the foundations for growth both for myself and the teams I supported.
What were your initial responsibilities and mindset upon commencing your journey as an EA?
Initially, my responsibilities were centred around executive support, managing schedules, ensuring smooth communication, and handling operational administration. My mindset was proactive — I wanted to go beyond “support” and instead anticipate needs, solve problems before they arose, and create space for leadership to focus on strategic priorities.
What pivotal moments contributed to your advancement from EA into your current role as Business Operations Manager?
- Several moments stand out:
- Taking ownership of cross-departmental projects that required me to step outside the traditional EA scope.
- Being entrusted to support on company-wide initiatives, including leading sustainability across the business, which gave me visibility into operations and strategy.
- Proactively identifying gaps in processes and presenting solutions that improved efficiency.
- Each of these opportunities built confidence in my ability to move into a broader operational role!
As your professional responsibilities expanded, how did you begin to influence and shape broader business strategies?
As I became more involved in operations, I started influencing strategy by streamlining processes, championing sustainability initiatives, and ensuring that internal structures supported the company’s long-term goals. I acted as a bridge between teams, helping leadership make decisions grounded in both operational realities and employee engagement.
Being recognised as the “Rising Star” for Sustainability in Tech at the CRN UK Awards represents a significant achievement — what professional significance does this milestone hold for you?
This recognition validated the importance of embedding sustainability into business operations. Personally, it demonstrated that my contributions were not only being recognised internally but also celebrated at an industry level. It encouraged me to keep driving meaningful change and showed that sustainability is integral to future-focused business strategy.
In what ways have these public engagements influenced your opportunities, feedback, and overall professional engagement within the industry?
These engagements have opened doors to new networks and conversations with peers who share similar goals. They have also enhanced my credibility, both within my company and externally, creating opportunities to collaborate, learn, and share ideas.
When you engaged with Mason & Dale, what specific factors were you seeking in your next career opportunity?
I was looking for a role that combined operational leadership with the ability to shape strategy. I also wanted to work within a company that valued sustainability, people, and long-term growth, rather than short-term gains.
How did Chanell’s approach differ from that of other recruiters you have previously encountered?
Chanell took the time to deeply understand not just my CV but also my aspirations, values, and preferred working culture. Unlike other recruiters who focused mainly on “filling a role,” she positioned opportunities that aligned with my long-term career trajectory and personal ethos.
What characteristics of this new opportunity made it align with your aspirations?
The opportunity gave me space to grow, influence company culture, and expand into a role that bridges operations, sustainability, and people strategy. It felt like a natural evolution of my career path, rather than just the next job.
What advice would you offer to young professionals entering EA roles or business operations roles?
Be curious, proactive, and willing to step outside the job description. Build relationships, look for gaps you can fill, and don’t be afraid to put forward ideas. The skills you develop as an EA — organisation, problem-solving, stakeholder management — are the foundation for a wide range of career paths.
You’ve collaborated extensively with Mason & Dale to enhance your team. What transformative effects has this partnership had on your hiring success and overall team culture?
Working with Mason & Dale has enabled us to attract talent that not only has the right expertise but also fits our culture. Their ability to understand our business and values has meant smoother onboarding, stronger team cohesion, and better retention.
Having built a strong team with multiple hires through Mason & Dale, how has that consistency and trust influenced your approach to talent strategy?
It’s reinforced the importance of working with partners who understand the bigger picture. Consistency has allowed us to build trust, streamline the hiring process, and create a team where cultural alignment is as important as skills. This has shaped my talent strategy to focus on long-term impact, not just immediate needs.
If you’re looking to strengthen your team or explore strategic talent solutions, schedule a call with Mason & Dale here.
Alternatively, if you’re seeking your next career opportunity and want a role that aligns with your skills, values, and long-term goals, browse current opportunities with Mason & Dale here.
