As long standing colleagues - and now great friends - we set up VANA with a joint desire to provide a more human approach to HR. Our principles of accessibility, openness, authenticity and creativity have led to over 21 years of collaboration with some of the most diverse, innovative and passionate clients.
About Me
I was born in Liverpool and raised in the north-west, surrounded by city energy and countryside escapes, before heading south to study Philosophy—a degree that shaped how I think, question, and embrace challenges. Today, the South West is home. Life here is lively, full of colour and chaos, shared with my husband, two wonderful children, a cat, a dog, and a hive of bees – there’s never a dull moment!
Curiosity drives me and fuels everything I do. I love learning new skills and exploring projects that stretch me. Whether baking bread and cakes, practicing Pilates, tending my allotment, or diving into hobbies like ukulele, beekeeping and Padel, every challenge is an opportunity to try something different and see where it leads—though I wouldn’t swap my career for prize-winning vegetables!
Why We Launched VANA
Before VANA, I worked in blue-chip environments, including several years alongside Debbie. While I valued the experience, we both saw a gap for something more personal, authentic, and tailored. In 2004, with my daughter on the way and a loyal network of clients, we took the plunge—leasing our first office and committing to a vision that was entirely our own.
VANA was born from the desire to offer a boutique, hands-on service that values integrity, honesty, and long-term relationships. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. Our success proves that doing things differently—and staying true to our values—resonates with both clients and candidates.
The Most Rewarding Part of Running VANA
For me, the greatest joy comes from seeing clients thrive. From innovative start-ups to global corporations, helping to build sector-defining businesses, forward-thinking teams, and fulfilling careers is endlessly rewarding.
Being so hands-on means we often become an extension of our clients’ teams. Candidates trust us to guide their next career move, and that trust is something I take very seriously. Every success story is a reminder of why we started this journey.
Outside of Vana
I thrive on challenges that spark creativity and offer something new. Alongside Debbie, I co-launched Seascape Property Ltd, beginning with Park Cottage, an 18th-century cottage in North Devon that we reimagined while preserving its character. Its success inspired us to take on The Fo’c’sle in Port Isaac, Cornwall, a Grade II Fisherman’s Cottage that we carefully restored, blending heritage with comfort to create a truly memorable guest experience. These projects have been creatively demanding, hugely rewarding, and a reminder of how energising it is to bring something back to life.
I also volunteer with The Stroke Association, providing telephone support to people affected by stroke. It’s incredibly rewarding to offer connection and reassurance at a time when it matters most, and it keeps me grounded amidst the busyness of life and work.
About Me
The ocean has always been my anchor. Growing up on the South Coast before my family moved to the Devon/Cornwall border, I spent my formative years enjoying a combination of salt air and coastal horizons alongside the dramatic backdrop of Dartmoor.
Today, Bath is home—a city that offers the perfect balance. Within easy reach of both London and the coast, surrounded by stunning countryside and rich history, it’s evolved into a vibrant hub of festivals, acclaimed restaurants, and electric match-day energy. Living in the countryside just outside the city gives us exactly what we need: tranquility and connection.
Proud Mum to Daisy and Alfie—my greatest achievement. They bring laughter, perspective, and purpose to everything I do. Watching them forge their own paths—one at Newcastle University, the other exploring South America before Birmingham—fills me with excitement for their futures.
I’m a passionate novice chef who loves experimenting in the kitchen, and an avid traveller always planning the next adventure. These days, you’ll find me practicing yoga, strength training, or walking the Southwest Coast Path. Back in 2017, I pushed my limits by walking the Cotswold Way 100k in 22 hours, raising funds for Action for A&T alongside a dear friend.
Committed supporter of Cancer Research UK and the Alzheimer’s Society—causes that touch my heart through personal family experiences losing both parents —and the RNLI, whose volunteers keep us safe in UK waters.
Why We Launched VANA
My years as Operations Director at a FTSE 100 company provided invaluable experience. Managing a multi-site business with P&L accountability and leading talented consultants gave me exposure to leaders across diverse sectors. But working within a corporate structure made it challenging to deliver the truly tailored service I knew was possible.
Leaving in 2004 was a leap of faith, but Jo and I knew it was right. VANA is our vision brought to life—a business that leads our industry while staying true to our values.
Our partnership works because we complement each other perfectly. Different styles, shared work ethic, and a vast network built over 20 years of VANA and nearly 30 years in the industry have made us stronger together.
The Most Rewarding Part of Running VANA
I’ve always embraced (calculated) risk. Life is a gift filled with endless possibilities, where every day brings new learning and opportunities to reach your potential.
Specialising in HR Search means partnering with people who understand how the right talent transforms organisations. We build long-standing relationships with clients and candidates—work that perfectly aligns with my genuine curiosity about people, passion for change, and love of new experiences.
VANA was built on honesty, authenticity, and accessibility. Our clients share these values, creating partnerships that endure. It’s proof that we’re doing something right.
Beyond VANA
In early 2019, Jo and I launched our second venture: Seascape Property Ltd. It began when I discovered Park Cottage—an 18th-century gem in Mortehoe, North Devon. We project-managed a complete renovation, transforming it into a luxury self-catering retreat.
The experience was so rewarding that in 2022, we acquired The Fo’c’sle in Port Isaac, Cornwall—a Grade II listed property we’ve carefully restored to honour its heritage. These projects have brought fresh challenges and learning, and we’ve loved welcoming guests, including many of our valued VANA clients, to experience these coastal hideaways.
To find out more please visit; www.seascapehideaways.co.uk
Debbie Flowers delivers first-class results. Debbie has been instrumental in the success of MyKindaFuture, introducing us to world-class people to drive our business growth. She brilliantly identifies capability and culture-fit in candidates, and over the last 3-years Debbie has consistently over-delivered. She is talented, committed and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend
Andrew Wilson, Company Director
