Could you describe your current role in internal communication and how you think membership with IoIC might support you in this role?
I am currently the global Head of Internal Communications at Bravura Solutions, a market-leading provider of financial software solutions with clients across the globe. Having joined 18 months ago, I created their first ever formal internal communications function. This involved putting together and activating an internal comm strategy, formal channel management with governance and measurement, establishing leadership communication platforms, and I have also led communications on numerous change programmes including rolling out a new strategy, target operating model, and welcoming a new CEO.
Membership with the IoIC is crucial to anyone working in the internal communications field because it sets the bar at the highest professional standard so that we as communicators have the tools and insights required to help a business and its people reach their full potential. The IoIC also offers valuable training and workshops, as well as continually challenging the internal communications community to think beyond and question the status quo of how things “should be” to keep evolving and progressing.
What motivated you to pursue a career in internal communication and what do you enjoy most about it?
I fell into internal communication completely by coincidence. Originally, I trained as an actor at drama school in London and ended up performing on stage and screen for a few years. I then migrated into writing and had a book published – So you want to tread the boards – with a foreword by Oscar-winning composer Leslie Bricusse and endorsement from Elaine Paige. It was nominated for an award at the 2010 London Book Festival and from there I moved into working as a journalist and theatre critic for The Stage newspaper, running country-wide workshops and events as part of The Stage Events, launching The Stage Castings (unique global video audition website), casting plays, acting as a judge for performing arts competitions, and running business development and communication for a West End theatre. I ended up in Financial Services through my writing skills and was asked to run internal communications for the Risk function of a large global insurer. And I’ve stayed in the field ever since!
The best part about working in internal communications is that no day is the same and that you are able to collaborate and engage with all areas and levels of a business. One day I’m putting together a monthly video communication for our CEO and the next, I’m speaking to our Head of Engineering and his team about prompt engineering and how this can enhance our intranet.
How has IoIC membership contributed to your professional development and career growth?
I think the IoIC originally defined for me what internal communications actually is. The webinars and learning sessions are also invaluable and always give me food for thought to rethink and expand on my approach.
Can you name one career achievement or project that you're particularly proud of, and why?
I recently won the Unsung Hero award at the Simply Awards 2024, which was a complete surprise. I am honoured by the industry recognition.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the internal communication profession?
Connect all your communication priorities to the business and organisational goals. Make active listening a priority. Collect proof points of how you’re making a difference.
Tell us a fun fact about you that not many people know?
I’ve shared the stage at the Royal Albert Hall singing with Brian May from Queen, Josh Groban, and Idina Menzel (|Wicked and Frozen).
