Is This Room Free?
Welcome to Is This Room Free? In this podcast I will be talking to HR professionals and listening to the stories of their careers. I will be finding out about the journeys they have taken and what they learnt along the way. The purpose is to help others in the profession identify and understand the various paths available and take inspiration from my guest speakers. Whether you are someone who is looking to get that first step on the HR career ladder or an aspiring HR Director, I hope you get value from these conversations.
Is This Room Free?
Gemma Ellison - from solicitor to culture & leadership expert (and dealing with all of lifes knocks along the way)
My guest for this episode is Gemma Ellison who currently works as a Senior Talent & Leadership Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support.
However, Gemma didn't start her career within HR. She had studied Law at university and went on to become a solicitor. An opportunity presented itself when she spoke up about the culture within the law firm she was working at where she was told to 'do something about it'. Gemma subsequently wrote a three year strategy to drive the changes she felt were required.
Interestingly, Gemma had always had an interest in Culture, Leadership, and the improving workplaces so this sliding doors moment presented her with an opportunity to follow her passion and she has been helping various businesses since.
This is a very candid and fascinating conversation. Gemma shares pivotal periods in her life that contributed to her working career and some of the challenges and obstacles she has had to endure and overcome.
I really want to thank Gemma for being so honest during our recording as it enabled some deep conversations that make for a riveting listen. I hope you enjoy it.