Lesson 1: Growth looks different for everyone
When I started Virteffic, I assumed success would look like rapid expansion, a busy office, and a large team. In reality, growth came through steady trust-building, client referrals, and developing a model that prioritised flexibility, wellbeing, and quality.It is easy to compare your path to others, but growth should reflect your values, not someone else’s expectations. For Virteffic, that meant creating a remote-first model that provides clients with responsive, reliable support while also giving our team the independence to thrive.Lesson 2: You cannot do it all yourself (and you shouldn’t try to)
In the beginning, I wore every hat. Business development, operations, invoicing, marketing, client work. You name it, I was doing it. That experience was invaluable, but the turning point came when demand outpaced what I could deliver alone.By 2021, I began building a team that shared the same vision and values. Today, Virteffic is proud to have a group of dedicated professionals who bring expertise, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to client service.Lesson 3: Processes matter more than you think
When you’re starting out, processes feel like something you’ll create “once things settle”. But the truth is, having clear systems and workflows early on saves time, reduces errors, and sets the tone for how you operate as you grow.Establishing strong structures has been vital for Virteffic. It gives clients confidence that their governance and compliance matters will be managed consistently, efficiently, and with the utmost discretion.Lesson 4: Flexibility is your greatest asset
One of my driving motivations for founding Virteffic was to create a working model that offered independence and balance. What I did not fully appreciate at the time was just how valuable this flexibility would be for both our clients and our team.Being adaptable has allowed us to step in during busy periods, complex projects, and resource gaps, helping clients when they need it most. It has also enabled us to attract and retain top talent while fostering a healthy, supportive team culture.Lesson 5: Your values will become your compass
When faced with difficult decisions, competing priorities, or moments of doubt, your values guide you. At Virteffic, everything is built around five core principles: efficiency, confidentiality, flexibility, diligence, and knowledge.These values are not just internal mantras. They influence every client interaction, every internal decision, and every service we deliver—from minute-taking and secondments to independent board reviews. Leading with values has been one of the most powerful lessons of all.Looking back to move forward
If I could go back and give myself advice in those early days, it would be this: trust your instincts, ask for help, and let your values guide you. The rest will follow.To anyone thinking of starting their own business, or building something new within an existing one, I hope these reflections help you feel a little more prepared, and a little less alone.Thank you to our clients and partners
To our clients, I want to say thank you. From the very first contract to the long-standing partnerships we have today, your trust has shaped Virteffic’s journey and continues to inspire us to grow.Which lesson resonates most with you? I’d love to hear your thoughts. We are proud to be recognised as a trusted multi-jurisdiction governance and company secretarial services provider. And if you’d like to learn more about how Virteffic supports boards and organisations with company secretarial services, governance consultancy, minute-taking, and administration, you can explore more on our website or get in touch for a conversation.All the best,
Tess
Our Story
I founded Virteffic in 2020 with a clear vision: to combine meticulous governance expertise with a flexible, sustainable way of working. What began as a one-woman venture has grown into a respected multi-jurisdiction team supporting boards across the Channel Islands and beyond. Our reputation is built on precise minute-taking, trusted secretarial support, and a culture that values collaboration and wellbeing.
From the start, our focus has been on people. By offering flexible opportunities, we’ve attracted experienced professionals, many with finance and regulatory backgrounds, who bring exceptional value to our clients. This model not only empowers our team but also ensures clients receive efficient, reliable, and tailored governance support.
I’m proud to share insights through Tess Thoughts, where I explore topics from minute-taking techniques to corporate governance and work-life balance. These reflections are shaped by real experiences and conversations with clients, and they reflect our commitment to continuous improvement.
Our growth is thanks to the trust of the boards and businesses we support. To those who have been with us since the beginning, thank you for being part of this journey. To those we haven’t yet met, we would love to show how Virteffic can make a difference to your board, governance team, or business.
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Head over to the News & Insights page on our website, where we share the latest updates from the team and what’s happening behind the scenes at Virteffic. From business milestones to team highlights and personal reflections, it’s where you can stay connected with our journey. We hope that you will continue to follow our journey.
