‘Embrace your curiosity’: In conversation with Norwich’s newest lecturers in Marketing and Business Management

In conversation

• Hi, Stephen and Laurie! Welcome to Norwich University. Could you start by telling us a bit more about yourselves and your careers so far?

  Stephen: My career has been an exhilarating ride, from guiding startups to success stories, to coaching seasoned executives to break through barriers. 

  I’ve had the privilege to work with professional athletes, key players in the entertainment industry, and a diverse range of leaders who push the boundaries of performance. I have focused on delivering exceptional customer journeys, high quality products, and winning outcomes, while inspiring teams to become the best versions of themselves and hit ambitious goals.

  Through it all, I have stayed true to myself by being authentic, consistent, and genuinely committed to who I am and how I show up for others.

  Laurie: My career has been squiggly; working across strategy, brand, digital, communications and more – freelance, inhouse and at agencies.

  I have worked in marketing for well over a decade, starting with an internship at Thomas Pink (a Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy brand) and progressing to leading the marketing and brand strategy for a global Out of Home media agency headquartered in London. 

  I am proud of the awards I have won, including Rising Star at the World Out of Home Organisation Awards and being named in Management Today’s 35 Women Under 35 list. But the things I value most are doing good work with good people, coaching teams and individuals to grow and become their best selves, helping to shape more inclusive workplaces, and creating campaigns and frameworks that genuinely work. 

  Stephen, you’re lecturing on our Business Management course. What makes this course relevant and exciting for Norwich students?

  Stephen: Norwich’s Business Management course is sprinkled with real world magic, along with strategy and theory. 

  It’s exciting because we won’t just skim the surface, we dive deep into the core of business dynamics, empowering students to think critically and innovate boldly. This course will prepare students not just to survive, but to thrive and lead in their chosen paths once they graduate. 

  And what advice would you give to someone considering studying Business Management at Norwich?

  Stephen: Dive in wholeheartedly! Accept the challenges, share your ideas, and take risks. Believe your potential and make the most of this incredible journey. 

  “I believe a strong mindset is the cornerstone of innovation, collaboration, and success. Merging those elements to create thriving and resilient enterprises is my passion. It’s about unlocking potential, encouraging creativity, and sparking change. That’s where the magic happens!” 

  Laurie, you’re lecturing on our new Marketing course. What message do you have for future students?

  Laurie: This BA Marketing course is not just theory; it’s practice and application! Everyone studying marketing at Norwich will come away with practical skills which enable them to hit the ground running in the workplace, whilst understanding what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. 

  If you are naturally curious, enjoy being creative and solving problems, marketing is a brilliant path. The smaller classes also mean you have your very own tight knit marketing community from day one, and this will serve you well as you embark on your career. I’m a bit jealous as I would have loved to have studied marketing in this way!

  My biggest advice to get ahead before you start your degree is to embrace your curiosity. Ask questions. Pay attention to how the world around you works. Build relationships – sometimes the best opportunities come from the communities you are part of. Be consistent. Do what you say you will do. Small actions over time can make a big difference. 

  “I’m very passionate about sustainability (encompassing social, community and environmental strands) and how the marketing work we do (whether in theory or practice) can influence behaviour and make the world a better place.”

  Outside of the University, are you working on any projects that you can tell us about?

  Stephen: Absolutely! I’m thrilled to share that I’m developing a brand-new app. Think of it as your personal cheerleader and mindset coach in your pocket. This app is designed to boost your confidence and cultivate a resilient mindset, helping you tackle challenges with that inner fire. I can’t wait to unveil it and watch it empower journeys to greatness!

  Laurie: There’s quite a bit I can’t talk about, but a local one I am very excited about and can! Alongside my lecturing work, I am working as Head of Marketing for The Lions’ Den, a social space in Norwich with saunas, a cafe and more. And we’ve got a new location in the city centre launching soon, which you should definitely visit! 

  And lastly, what are you most looking forward to about working at Norwich University of the Arts?

  Stephen: The energy and creativity I have seen so far is infectious. I want to share insights and ignite discussions that will challenge perspectives and inspire growth. I want to encourage open minded learning that allows the students to be creative, collaborative, conscientious and consistent.

  Laurie: I am so looking forward to being part of a creative and welcoming community and supporting students as they step into the next stage of their academic lives. 

  Lecturing combines things I care deeply about; curiosity, communication, creativity and helping people gain confidence in their own ideas. And with Norwich University of the Arts’ creative approach to education, I feel like I am in the right place to do that.

Gallery photography: Chris Roberts