5 minutes with… Katy Marshall, staff engagement lead
What do you like best about your job? The variety of people and teams that I meet who are so enthusiastic and passionate about their work. These moments leave me bursting with motivation and energy.
What was the first record you ever bought? Being born in the 80s I was a huge fan of Bananarama and spent hours and hours dancing and singing to ‘Love in the First Degree’. In fact I’m playing it as I complete these questions… still know all the words, not so sure about the dance moves though!
Who or what inspires you? My brother inspires me, we are very close, similar age and he is someone that I have always looked up to and still do. He is caring, kind, thoughtful and absolutely hilarious. He helps me think things through, see things from different perspectives and value the love and friendships we have in our lives.
Name one thing you couldn’t live without? The freedom to be me.
How would your friends and colleagues describe you? I was lucky enough to have a 360 this year and got some great comments about my enthusiasm, encouragement of others and passion for my job. I appreciate I can get carried away and talk too much and think both friends and colleagues would share this opinion.
Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party and why? My grandad Bert, grandma and auntie Barbara. My dad’s sister died at 17 so I never knew her, and my dad’s dad died when I was two, so I can’t remember him. I would love to spend an evening with them to learn more about the people they were and them tell me stories about what my grandma was like when she was younger. I knew her as a caring, generous and selfless lady but no doubt there would be some stories of mischief.
Who had the greatest influence on your career? Jennie Negus. She is an amazing leader and taught me how to be proud of achievements. She always shows compassion, honesty and respect to everyone she comes into contact with.
What’s your favourite sport? Horse riding (to do) Grand Prix (to watch)
If you could have any superpower what would it be? To fly
What was the last thing that made you smile? Singing a full blown conversation in the car, as if I was starring in an opera
What talent do you wish you had? To play a wide range of classical musical instruments
Who’s your favourite band? The 1975
What is your greatest achievement? Being a mum to two amazing children.
Where is your favourite place in the world? Home
What’s your favourite book? The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
If you could change one thing about where you work what would it be? For all staff to recognise their own abilities and value themselves and their role. Too often I meet people who are fantastic and don’t see it themselves.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you take with you? Helicopter, fuel and a pilot
How would you like to be remembered? Kind, honest, caring, loving, courageous, comical and insightful