Professional Experience
I have over 15 years’ experience across a variety of retail, food, drink and lifestyle clients, with extensive agency and in-house experience and have been lucky enough to work on some huge national and international brands throughout my career. I started off on large FMCG brands such as Kellogg’s, Kraft and Tate & Lyle, before moving into retail and managing the press office and campaign strategy at both Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencer. Most recently before joining FINN, I led Culture & Entertainment across Diageo’s luxury brand portfolio and managed a number of consumer and trade agencies – giving me a real understanding on what a good agency partner should be for our clients. I love to problem solve and have a passion for creating digital-first campaigns that are proven to deliver a commercial return for the business. I believe our best work is done when we work closely with other teams across a brand – including digital, social, affiliates and advertising and because of this, have developed a passion for influencer marketing, affiliate programmes, and creating long-term brand partnerships – relishing the challenge of working with budgets large and small.
I prides myself on being a people person that ensures enthusiasm and passion are at the heart of what our agency stands for. I also have a huge personal and professional interest in food, drink and the arts, guaranteeing a real understanding of where brands should be showing up in culture in order to best tell their story. I am also hugely passionate about enabling people from diverse and varied backgrounds into our sector, and am delighted that as an agency we work closely with the Taylor Bennett Foundation – a charity that encourages those from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to pursue a career in communications.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.”
Maya Angelou
How'd you get here?
After studying for a degree in English Literature, I knew I wanted a role that encouraged my passion for writing, so felt PR was the perfect next step. I started off in agency at a time when budgets were large and the economy was booming and was proud to create inspiring campaigns, product launches and milestone birthday celebrations for our clients. It was a fantastic jumping off point into the industry and I forged some brilliant relationships with people that remain life-long friends and mentors to this day. After this, I moved into retail – including a nine year stint at M&S which was an incredibly happy and fulfilling role – working closely with brand marketing, product development and retail teams to create connected PR plans, led by data, insight and ensuring we were on the front foot of cultural trends. Lastly Diageo, which was high energy and great fun – before I returned to agency life here at FINN where I feel I have found a home for my love of all things retail, consumer brand and lifestyle.