Helen Staples, Fiona Laverick and Francesca Kosina - Senior leaders at digital marketing agency, Outrank
Did you always envisage a career in the world of Technology?
Helen, Sales Director – Not at all! I found myself immersed in a career in digital marketing through my passions for connecting with and managing people. The industry excited me as it was very new when I first set out on my career journey.
Fiona, Search Director – I actually studied fashion and business at university, then landed a digital marketing role at a luxury fashion company. With digital marketing constantly evolving, I enjoyed the potential to reach vast audiences, engage customers in creative and innovative ways, and drive results.
Francesca , Operations Director – Like Helen and Fiona, I stumbled into the world of digital marketing. After university, I qualified as a solicitor, but I found myself increasingly fascinated by the transformative power of technology and the potential it held for reshaping industries.
What tips would you give to someone looking to work in the industry?
Francesca – Do not worry about your A Level results or what degree you studied. As long as you are passionate, enjoy problem solving, and have an inquisitive mind, you can go far.
Fiona – Network as much as you can. Build strong professional connections by attending industry events, connect with professionals online, and seek mentorship opportunities.
Helen – I think for any industry, thoroughly researching the job you want to secure and gaining work experience in that sector are the best things you can do.
Tell us about the most exciting project you’re currently working on?
Helen – As a relative new starter at Outrank, I’m busy crafting new sales strategies to support the company’s ongoing growth, whilst developing fresh personal development plans to help the fantastic team reach their full potential.
Tell us about your team?
Fiona – The overall team at Outrank is diverse and dynamic with a wide range of skills, backgrounds, and expertise. Each member brings a unique perspective to the table, enabling us to approach challenges creatively and innovatively from multiple angles. Outrank’s culture is based on open communication, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose.
Francesca – Everyone at Outrank is passionate, talented and highly energetic who love their jobs. The team is collectively bought into our business ambitions, and this shared vision makes work collaborative and enjoyable.
What are your long term plans for the business?
Francesca – Outrank has an aggressive three-year growth strategy which we have carefully developed alongside a structured mergers and acquisitions plan. We recently acquired two agencies and are currently looking to acquire two more.
Fiona – Our goal is to be the leading and go-to SEO agency for all UK SMEs. The partnership strategy we have devised by working with Sara Davies and one of the UK’s largest banks is helping us to realise our dreams for the business.
What’s your favourite piece of technology?
Helen – Not so much a tangible item of technology, but I never fail to be excited by website development and the constant innovation in this area. Getting to see your client’s vision come to life, from concept to completion, knowing it will drive their business forward, is incredibly rewarding.
Do you have any heroes or mentors?
Helen – One person who I have had the pleasure to work with was David Brown, retired CEO of Web.com. David managed to make every staff member feel valued and gave back to the company to ensure each member was benefiting from the growth of the business. I recognised the same traits in Outrank’s leadership team, which is why I didn’t hesitate to accept the role here.
Francesca – I am very lucky to count some of the world’s most talented digital marketing experts as my friends. I’ve worked with Michael Briggs, ex-Skyscanner and Canva, twice over the years. His knowledge, advice and leadership style has been hugely influential on my career.
When not working, how do you like to relax?
Fiona – I love to travel and explore new destinations whenever I can. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, travelling brings me joy and helps me unwind from the stresses of life.
Francesca – When I’m not busy being mummy to my beautiful boys, I can be found on a yoga mat somewhere. The health benefits for both my mind and my body are huge. Yoga is the only thing that allows my brain to switch off and relax.
What’s your fondest career memory?
Francesca – I once had dinner with Sir Richard Branson. He told me to live a life full of adventure, achieve a good work life balance and prioritise my family. Wise words.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received?
Fiona – It’s not what you achieve, it’s what you overcome that defines your career.
Francesca – It’s OK to fail as this helps you to grow as a person.
Discover more: www.outrank.co.uk