People Journey Series | Poppy Ellison, Consultant, London

We take a look behind the corporate bios of our team to uncover what drives them in their careers and why they continue to choose Marlin Hawk. Next in our People Journey Series is Poppy Ellison, Consultant in our London office.

01. Tell us about your career to date with Marlin Hawk.

Five years has seen me grow from Financial Services Researcher to Customer-Centric, Cross-Sector Consultant. Joining as a graduate in 2016, I began my career focusing on C-level -1 positions across Financial Services in EMEA. Developing a preference for those firms who put their customers first, I have since expanded my repertoire to operate cross-sector, spanning roles from Data to Procurement, Security to ESG. In that time I have been promoted three times, and sampled roles across multiple geographies.

02. What attracted you to Marlin Hawk? And how have we delivered on expectations?

Marlin Hawk’s interview process was one of the most rigorous I attended. Daunting? Perhaps – but it also offered a valuable insight into Marlin Hawk. I wanted to join a company that thrived on dedication, excellence and ambition. By my reasoning, if Marlin Hawk put as much effort into their work and candidate / client care as they did their own internal hiring process, then this was likely the place for me! The experience has not disappointed, and I enjoy being part of a team with shared values.

03. What has been your greatest achievement so far?

Professionally has been the ability to challenge (and have my opinion accepted by) those who are significantly more experienced and senior, both internally and externally. The amount of time dedicated to information gathering and analysis at Marlin Hawk is incredibly beneficial, as it allows you to hold a reasoned and informed conversation with those around you. Personally I have also appreciated the opportunity to develop the firm’s charitable ethos, particularly over COVID. Marlin Hawk gives all employees the opportunity to develop not just professionally, but also the space to act creatively.

04. What or who has helped you along the way?

Taking the leap from fresh-faced graduate into the corporate world of the City of London for the first time was – admittedly – somewhat daunting. However, with a supportive team and an excellent copy of Mary Beard’s “Women and Power”, I was never made to feel like I did not fit in. As a new starter, Marlin Hawk has an excellent collection of collaborative peers and encouraging role models, and from the word go you are reassured that your contribution is valued.

05. How would you describe the culture at Marlin Hawk?

Marlin Hawk is like a champagne cocktail. It is polished, professional with a nod to the traditional, but with enough fizz and sparkle to make it fun and exciting. Like a champagne cocktail it is made up of lots of different ingredients / characters, but all come together to create a brilliant finished piece.