🥇 Meet a Gold Medal Winner🥇
Monique Fernandes
Meet Monique, a determined and loyal member of Team CS who brings a touch of wit and a lot of heart to everything he does. Whether he’s keeping client projects on track or whipping up something sweet in the kitchen, Monique’s all about making the most of every opportunity and having a bit of fun along the way.
"Make the most of every opportunity and give it your all. "
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What does a typical workday look like for you?
No two days are the same here in Team CS, and that’s what keeps me excited! A key part of my role is working closely with clients to ensure their publications stay on track, their content aligns with their objectives and adds real value to their broader strategy. My goal is to give every client a GMW experience with EMJ—nothing but excellence—so they leave with a positive impression and are eager to work with us again. I’m also passionate about nurturing junior talent and enhancing our team’s overall collaboration and efficiency. I’m always on the lookout for marginal gains and the best approach to implement them, leading to drive growth for both the CS team and the company.
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Can you tell us about what you did before coming to EMJ? How has it helped you with your current role?
I spent about many years working at Homebase, which explains why there’s always a tape measure in my handbag! I worked on the Customer Service Desk, where I handled a wide range of customer queries—especially during those hectic bank holiday sales. I also was a leader in the showroom, where I would sell and design kitchens. In addition to that, I worked as a Support Worker for individuals with severe disabilities, ensuring they still had a good quality of life and had fun in their day. These experiences taught me how to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve common goals and targets. But most importantly, I learned the value of emotional intelligence and empathy in communication – when you are speaking to a Client or your team.
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What 3 words would someone on your team say about you?
Determined, Loyal, Caring
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How is EMJ different to other workplaces?
The values at EMJ have always resonated with me. While qualifications are important, I believe that personality and attitude make all the difference
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Describe your proudest moment at EMJ and explain why.
Winning ‘Best Newcomer’ at the Summer Ball a few years ago, I was very touched. It meant a lot, especially after spending so long job hunting during the pandemic. EMJ was the first place to offer me an in-person interview, and I was over the moon to receive an offer. From the moment I joined, I made a conscious effort to get to know everyone, understand the company, and get involved in many opportunities. This award is a meaningful reminder that hard work pays off.
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What’s an interesting fact about you outside of work?
During lockdown, I was furloughed, and my family was stuck in Goa for nine months. I've always been a passionate baker from a young age, so I decided to set up a baking business - after all, everyone needed a bit of sweet joy in their lives. The orders started rolling in through old-school friends, word of mouth, and the Insta hype. To date, I’ve taken around 200 orders, creating everything from drip cakes and cheesecakes to chocolate smash hearts and Florette Fridays (if you know, you know). It was a fun experience that also taught me the value of planning ahead.
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How would you spend your last £1?
I’d check what baking supplies I needed (I usually keep well-stocked), and if I found I was missing something, I’d spend £1 on a unique ingredient. I’d then bake something special, sell it, and turn that £1 into something more.
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Who has had the most impact on your career to date and why?
My Dad is a true champion of showing what is to work hard, but also have just as much fun! He’s shown me how to excel in my career while also pouring energy into hobbies that can be just as rewarding. He’s an accountant but also has a passion for organising big annual events for the Goan community – sports, concerts, dances you name it! He’s a living example that life is for enjoying as much as it is for working hard
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What’s your BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal)?
I’d like to set up my psychotherapy practice specialising in building long-term coping strategies and emotional intelligence. Helping others realise their full potential, understand what’s holding them back, and bring out the best in themselves is something I’m truly passionate about. While many therapy, techniques focus on managing specific situations, developing emotional intelligence enables individuals to navigate unexpected life challenges and successfully move on from those points.
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Finally, do you have any words of wisdom you’d like to share?
Make the most of every opportunity and give it your all. Whether you’re in a part-time job or a short-term role, treat it as if it’s your career. Put in your energy and learn as much as you can—it will build your character and skill set over time. And more importantly, always stay true to yourself by being authentic and kind; when you’re genuine, the best version of you will always show.