Get to know us a little bit more...

In the second of our  'Getting to know us' blogs we're pleased to introduce our latest recruit, Katie Lancaster. 

Katie has a degree in Modern Languages and started her career as a Project Manager for top International Branding & Packaging Design Agencies based in London.  Working with companies such as Boots, Revlon, Virgin and Walkers, projects encompassed complete re-branding or package design and Katie was part of the team who worked on the re-brand of the Boots No. 17 make-up range.  Although Katie found the industry "great fun and thoroughly rewarding" it was time to move on to something new and Katie found herself in the world of Film Advertising.  

Working with clients such as 20th Century Fox, Universal and Pathe, she worked with the designers on all marketing material needed to release a new movie – posters, Premiere invites, even bus sides!  "I loved this industry" says Katie, "but it's a young person's game and at the ancient age of 30 (!) she decided to take a 3 month Sabbatical and re-train in a completely new Industry – Personal Training!  

As a Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor Katie first worked at the prestigious Hurlingham Club in London before launching her own business, 'Gym & Tonic' in South West London.  "I loved having my own studio and worked really hard building and promoting my name and business in a very competitive industry.  I was working 7 days a week, often starting training clients at 5.30am right through until 10 o'clock at night!  After 5 years and 2 sons later, I decided to slow down and think about what I wanted to do next.  I decided that I missed being part of a team - I wanted to be part of a Company again and Involved Investors came along at just the right time! However, at this point, I had been out of the "working environment" and "corporate culture" for over 10 years so felt very nervous about plunging back into it.  Being part of a small team at Involved Investors means that I get involved in many different areas of the company and use all of the skills I've gained over the last 18 years.  Paul, Anna and Rachel have all been a great support and their wealth of experience means I am learning something new every day!"

We're extremely excited to have Katie onboard and her knowledge adds to our already extensive background in all aspects of creating, sustaining, promoting, growing and exiting successful businesses and we're sure you'll join us in welcoming her to the team.