Fast Five with Laura

Q1. You’re starting a small business in an economic downturn… are you crazy?

Maybe! But is there ever a perfect time to listen to your gut and follow your heart? I prefer to think about the potential that exists for our proposition in the current climate. We’re in a period where businesses need to reduce expenses and (sadly) one of the first places this is sought from is Marketing. This impacts media investment, human resources and agency arrangements and team capacity as budgets are reworked and reworked - a bit like death by potato peeler!!  A great alternative is to have Wingmaven come in with fresh, experienced eyes, and unearth all the ways that your marketing function and activity can be more effective and efficient, and prioritise where you should focus effort for greatest returns. We also offer “as and when you need it” strategy and senior marketing leadership which means that businesses who either can no longer afford to hold senior resources and talent full time, or those who aren’t yet at that point in their maturity and scale, can access these essential skills “on demand”. We believe this will be a game changer for businesses at all levels and stages of growth- now more than ever.

Q2. In terms of your choice of co-founder… Laura, why Jenn?

You’re kidding right? Jenn has always been a mover and a shaker. Jenn is one of those people who you just knew was on a fast track to c-suite, and (seemingly) taking it all in her stride. Everywhere she goes, she builds massive cred with senior leadership in record time, becomes a trusted advisor to exec and has always expanded her impact well beyond Marketing. Her teams and stakeholders adore her, people fall in love with her humour and heart and she draws people towards her everywhere she goes. She’s a big visionary thinker, huge grit, gets the job done, takes no prisoners, wins hearts far and wide, knows how to have a laugh and balance her incredible leadership with genuine humility. Couldn't think of a better business partner.  

Q3. Where do you do your best thinking?

On a run…pounding the pavement, watching people doing the same, with somewhere to be, or something to prove - it’s inspiring. I love the freedom mixed with the rhythm and rigour required to finish well, ahead. Time fades and thoughts crystallise. The end of the session, the oxygen is flowing, my brain is working and I can see everything so clearly. While it’s a fab way to consume podcasts from millions of people doing clever things, most of all, it’s the vital space I need to formulate plans, review progress and solve problems during periods of change or transformation I’m driving in a business. It’s been my creative space over the years and has always served me well when I’m leading through difficult or complex situations. Long may my legs work and my knees hold up!

Q4. What drives you nuts?

Hmmm. Most people would say I’m pretty relaxed. It takes a lot to give me the irrits. That’s one of my super powers, patience to deal with all manner of BS and look like I’m not fazed. That said, I cannot bear going slow when things should be going fast - this could be driving or thinking or acting. It’s usually when people are talking slow or being evasive or taking forever to arrive at a conclusion or summarise next steps from a meeting or just forgetting to get-to-the-point! Move people move, time's a wasting! 

Q5. How would your family describe you?

Beyond patient, but look out if you run that well dry! Feisty, headstrong and incredibly stubborn. My youngest described me when I asked as caring, kind and a health-food-addict who is good at making lunch boxes and spaghetti bolognaise.