Leading communications across borders, supported by a strong professional network
I lead the communications function at Momentum Services, the exclusive hospitality partner of Eurostar. Our 1,100 colleagues are based across London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, looking after Eurostar customers onboard, in the lounges and at stations in the Netherlands.
My team covers all aspects of corporate communications, from employee and leadership communication to partnerships, and reputation. As we all know, the role is varied by nature … that’s just communications.
When it’s done properly, communications is not just about delivering messages; it’s about advising the business, helping shape decisions, challenging thinking and bringing a people perspective into the room. I’m fortunate to work in a company that understands that communication deserves a seat at the decision table, and that good communication starts long before a message is written.
Communications relies on curiosity, perspective and learning from others, and the IoIC is a great source of inspiration and shared thinking. It also gives my team access to resources and a wider peer network, which really matters to me.
A creative path into comms, fuelled by curiosity and a passion for impact
I didn’t set out to work in communications. I studied journalism and fully expected to become a journalist. Communications wasn’t part of the plan at all. I more or less stumbled into the profession when I joined Coca-Cola Enterprises in Brussels (now Coca-Cola Europacific Partners) as a copywriter, straight out of university. It was my first job, and I’ve never really left the communications world since, having been fortunate enough to work my way up.
What I enjoy most is the impact, but also the creativity. I’m a firm believer that communications shouldn’t be boring. It’s okay to try things, learn as we go and experiment - not by putting sparkles everywhere, far from it, but by designing communication that feels engaging and relevant. Employees consume information in their private lives in a seamless, intuitive way, and I think we should do our best to offer that same experience at work.
"To this day, there’s honestly nothing else I can imagine doing."
Proud moments shaped not by campaigns, but by a thriving, collaborative team.
I’ve worked on countless projects over the course of my career, from company rebrands and large-scale change initiatives to major milestones and celebratory campaigns; some more serious, some more fun than others. Those experiences have been incredibly valuable and rewarding.
That said, the achievement I’m most proud of is seeing my team thrive: when everyone understands the brief, shares the vision and feels confident delivering together. Watching them collaborate, challenge each other and consistently give their best is what gives me the greatest sense of achievement.
Advice for newcomers: stay curious, be bold, and don’t be afraid to experiment
I always tell my team to stay curious. Look at what other organisations are doing, go to networking events, grab a coffee with peers and have conversations outside your own business. It’s the best way to challenge your thinking and stay creative. You can’t get inspired if you only ever keep your head inside your own organisation.
I’d also say: don’t be afraid to try things. Communications should be enjoyable, and it’s often through experimenting that you learn what really works and what doesn’t. Not everything will land perfectly, and that’s okay. Being open, curious and willing to test new ideas is, in my view, one of the most important skills you can develop in this profession.
