Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
Generic

Thomas Difford-Smith

Perth,WA

Summary

Aspiring Policy Analyst Assistant with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sociology with Criminology from the University of Portsmouth. Proficient in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including thematic analysis and statistical analysis. Demonstrated ability to conduct ethical, participant-centred research, exemplified by a 10,000-word dissertation. Experienced in stakeholder engagement, policy evaluation, and collaborative project execution through roles such as Social Secretary for the University of Portsmouth Lacrosse Club. Skilled in utilising complex information and presenting relevant findings effectively. Eager to utilise academic expertise and interpersonal skills to contribute to evidence-based policy development and analysis.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

Retail Assistant

Superdrug
04.2017 - 04.2019

Hospitality Staff

Nandos
06.2019 - 02.2020

Retail Assistant

The Cooperative Food
06.2019 - 09.2021

Retail Assistant

Tesco
06.2022 - 02.2025
  • Consistently delivered substantial revenues of over £5,000 by providing one-on-one customer service, serving on the tills and shop floor.
  • Developed a solid base of sales experience by being the highest upselling member of staff and the lowest error order in the team.
  • Alerting customers to any current offers and promoting a range of in-house products and high-end items, such as perfumes, requiring a good knowledge of the stores' available ranges.
  • Working in both hospitality and retail stores meant embracing a fast-paced environment.

Social Secretary

University of Portsmouth Lacrosse Club
09.2023 - 07.2024
  • Planned and executed weekly social nights and other social events for the university sports clubs, including Club Dinners, Quiz Nights, and Race Days for all men’s and women’s teams within the club.
  • Welfare and mental health awareness training were received. The role involved ensuring the safety of new and existing club members at social events.
  • Creating themes and respective activities on sports society nights for members to participate in and enjoy.
  • Collaboration with the “Raise and Give” (RAG) fundraising secretary to plan and implement charity activities at social events.
  • Frequent meetings and joint work with all committee members involving club issues, team cohesiveness, and club goals.
  • Experience in conflict resolution between club members.

Education

Bachelor of Science with Honours - Sociology with Criminology

University of Portsmouth
07-2024

Skills

  • Data analysis
  • Qualitative research
  • Quantitative research
  • Statistical reporting
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Research methodologies
  • Effective communication
  • Literature review
  • Sampling methods
  • Data interpretation
  • Data entry
  • Communication
  • Event Planning
  • Admin
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Leadership
  • Sales & Marketing
  • Customer Service
  • Time Management
  • Teamwork
  • Public speaking
  • Networking skills
  • Creative thinking
  • Fundraising coordination
  • Cross-cultural awareness

Accomplishments

  • Achieved a 1st-class dissertation, allowing the option to publish the research.
  • Elected by a majority of 80 club members to serve as social secretary.
  • Produced a safe and inclusive social environment for students.
  • Planned and promoted charity social events for the Movember Charity, resulting in over £1,300 in donations.
  • Achieved the highest weekly sales of 35 star buys at Superdrug.

References

Available on request

Timeline

Social Secretary

University of Portsmouth Lacrosse Club
09.2023 - 07.2024

Retail Assistant

Tesco
06.2022 - 02.2025

Hospitality Staff

Nandos
06.2019 - 02.2020

Retail Assistant

The Cooperative Food
06.2019 - 09.2021

Retail Assistant

Superdrug
04.2017 - 04.2019

Bachelor of Science with Honours - Sociology with Criminology

University of Portsmouth
Thomas Difford-Smith