The Visionary VA Podcast20 Maalis 2025

From Solo VA to Thriving Team: Joanne Manville on Growth, Mindset & Giving Back

Ever wondered what it takes to go from a one-woman VA business to leading a team? In this episode, we chat with award-winning VA Joanne Manville as she shares her journey, the mindset shifts that made it possible and the power of giving back.

Joanne reflects on the highs and lows of her 10-year journey, from taking on her first associate to rebranding her business and finding her niche in supporting charities. She opens up about the lessons learned, the importance of trusting your gut and why building the right team (plus working with the right clients) is crucial.

She also shares insights on applying for awards, leveraging university interns and ensuring work-life balance remains a priority. If you're considering growing a virtual assistant business, this episode is full of valuable takeaways.

Key Takeaways:

When exploring how to grow your virtual assistant business, your intuition is often your best guide. If something feels off, it probably is.

Being an award-winning virtual assistant isn’t just about recognition - it forces you to reflect on your achievements, build credibility and stand out in a competitive market.

Managing a virtual assistant business growth strategy isn’t just about being a great VA. If you’re expanding, be prepared to develop leadership, recruitment and communication skills.

Take a step back and assess where your VA business is heading. Whether it's expanding your team, refining your niche or outsourcing tasks you shouldn't be doing, make a plan for your next strategic move.

Who is Joanne?

Joanne worked for over ten years as an Executive Personal Assistant before launching what was known as Joanne Manville Virtual Assistance in 2015 (we rebranded in 2024). She has grown the business to include a team of specialist associates as well as employing two interns through the University of Exeter. Joanne and her team love assisting charities and small businesses, helping them understand what to outsource and what approach will benefit their organisation the most.

Work/life balance is high on Joanne’s priority list - not just for herself running a successful business, but also for her clients and her team. Aside from her passion to support growing businesses, Joanne enjoys walks with friends on Dartmoor, the challenge of Escape Rooms, and a good giggle at a Comedy Night.

Of course, spending time with her family is paramount - Joanne loves with her 8 year-old daughter and her husband Paul. Never one to shy away from lending a helping hand, Joanne is also a Trustee for Exeter District Scouts, a volunteer role which has lasted over 20 years!

Follow Joanne on LinkedIn

Check out Joanne’s website

Resources

⁠Get our Free mini course on Creating Solid Business Foundations ⁠

⁠Hiring Associates free guide⁠

⁠Visit the website

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