The Pursuit Playbook – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Welcome to "Pursuit Playbook," where we dive into the journeys of remarkable individuals who are shaping the future with their unique strategies and insights. In this episode, our host Aprileen interviews her long-time friend, Jeanell English, who recently transitioned from a C-Suite corporate executive role to entrepreneur, as co-founder of ⁠Elizabeth & Minnie Publishing. ⁠

Jeanell shares her story, highlighting the crucial skills she acquired in business school that equipped her for running her own enterprise, emphasising the importance of data analytics, modelling, and accounting. She reflects on her experiences in corporate America, particularly the challenges faced by black women and women of colour, and her dedication to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into organisational frameworks.

Jeanell also discusses her passion for book publishing, the significance of intellectual property ownership, and how she leverages her network to create opportunities for herself and others. This episode is rich with wisdom on authentic leadership, the strategic importance of kindness and empathy, and the power of maintaining strong relationships. Whether you're contemplating a career shift, looking to enhance your DEI initiatives, or seeking inspiration to align your career with your core values, this episode offers invaluable guidance.

5 Key Lessons from this episode:

1. The Power of Business Education:

Jeanell underscores how her business school education provided her with essential skills such as data analytics, modelling, and accounting. These competencies have been critical in managing her business and expanding her professional network.

2. Setting Clear DEI Goals:

Jeanell emphasises that effective diversity work requires clear, specific goals to stay focused and create meaningful impact. Her experiences demonstrate how clarity in objectives can transform organisational dynamics.

3. Authenticity and Personal Branding:

Transitioning to entrepreneurship has allowed Jeanell to represent her own values authentically rather than those of an institution. She believes that authentic leadership, driven by personal motivators, is crucial for making a real difference.

4. Mentorship and Strategic Relationships:

Success is often bolstered by the support of mentors, sponsors, and close peers. Jeanell outlines the importance of knowing who holds power within an organisation and building strong, strategic relationships with them.

5. Redefining Success and Embracing Failure:

Jeanell encourages questioning traditional measures of success and urges viewing failures as opportunities for redirection. Her perspective reinforces that failures are learning moments that contribute to long-term growth.

Get to know our Playmakers:  

Stay up-to-date with Jeanell's professional journey and initiatives through her social media channels:

- LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanell-english/⁠

- Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jeatothenell/⁠

- Publishing Company: ⁠https://www.elizabethminnie.com/⁠

Don’t forget to click the subscribe button to find us next week and listen to other episodes, actionable advice and insider perspectives only on the Pursuit Playbook!

Join the community at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠ and sign up to our substack at ⁠https://pursuitplaybook.substack.com⁠. Don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production, recorded by Aprileen Alexander in April 2024.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IG: @aiai.studios // Website: ⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠

In this insightful episode of Pursuit Playbook, host Aprileen sits down with Lorraine Copes, the inspiring founder and CEO of Be Inclusive Hospitality. Lorraine shares her compelling journey from turning down a role in 2012 to finding game-changing opportunities, debunking misconceptions about the hospitality industry, and navigating her career as a proactive CEO and social entrepreneur. Discover how she has leveraged her Jamaican heritage, industry expertise, and commitment to diversity to shape her impactful career.

Aprileen and Lorraine also delve into the importance of career role models, addressing inappropriate workplace behaviour, and the significance of strategic play in achieving professional success. Don’t miss this enriching conversation that underscores the lessons learned through grit, resilience, and inclusive leadership.

In this episode:

• Lorraine reflects on a significant 2012 decision to turn down a role that did not align with her values, leading to transformative opportunities.

• Aprileen shares an account of a position she declined based on instincts, subsequently experiencing regret.

• Lorraine dispels common myths about hospitality careers, such as the diversity of roles and misconceptions about salaries.

• The discussion encompasses managing substantial budgets, Lorraine’s pragmatic approach, and her consideration for various stakeholder perspectives.

• Lorraine delves into her evolved approach to confronting inappropriate workplace behavior, influenced by her Jamaican heritage, and underscores the importance of career role models and building a professional brand.

5 Key Lessons from this episode:

1. Trust Your Gut: Lorraine believes in listening to your gut feelings and trusting yourself, especially as you grow in your career.

2. Find Role Models: Having role models who look like you or share your background can be super helpful and inspirational.

3. Expand Your View on Hospitality: The hospitality industry offers more than you think. Understanding its full scope can bust some big myths!

4. Tackle Workplace Issues: It’s important to deal with inappropriate behavior head-on, aligning with your values to create a respectful work environment.

5. Build a Legacy: Lorraine’s journey shows that intentionality, bravery, and strategy are key to creating lasting change and impact.

Get to know our Playmakers: 

- Find out more about Be Inclusive Hospitality (https://bihospitality.co.uk/)

 Connect with Lorraine

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorraine.copes/

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beinclusivehospitality/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraine-copes-ab614820/

We hope you enjoy this deep dive into Lorraine's journey and strategies on Pursuit Playbook. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!

Join the community at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com and sign up to our substack at https://pursuitplaybook.substack.com Don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production, recorded by Aprileen Alexander in March 2024.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IG: @aiai.studios // Website: www.aiaistudios.com

Hi Hi!

Season 2 is here! Listen to our trailer, then head over to listen to our first episode.

Long before anyone was a Belieber and Justin Bieber became a household name, Shani Gonzales was already a fan. This instinctive foresight and her unwavering self-confidence have been the cornerstones of her illustrious career, culminating in her present positions.

Shani holds the dual roles of Executive Vice President and Managing Director at Warner Chappell Music UK and the Head of International A&R at Warner Chappell Music. Her track record in the music business is distinguished by her knack for signing and guiding some of the most influential artists of our time, including DJ Khaled, Juice Wrld, and Bibi Bourelly, who has penned hits for the likes of Camila Cabello, Rihanna, and Selena Gomez. Among the high-caliber talents she has played a part in developing are Labrinth, Justin Bieber, MeLo-X, Nate Cyphert (famous for his work with Florida Georgia Line), Nic Nac (linked with Chris Brown and DJ Khaled), Poo Bear, P2J (producer for superstars like Beyoncé, Doja Cat, WizKid), Saint Jhn, Travis Scott, and WondaGurl, known for her production work with Drake and Rihanna.

In her leadership capacity at Warner Chappell Music UK, and in tandem with her A&R international duties, Gonzales is pivotal in broadening the publisher's UK roster. She selects artists with a focus on diversity and has been influential in acquiring talents such as BOJ, Central Cee, Daniel Blumberg, Emma-Jean Thackray, Legendury Beatz, P2J, and The Snuts. Her advocacy for international cooperation has been relentless, ensuring that Warner Chappell Music’s global network of esteemed artists works together harmoniously, fostering cross-border artistic partnerships.

Shani's extraordinary career achievements, while a product of her relentless effort, are also a testament to the influence of her Jamaican and Trinidadian heritage, thanks to her parents' unwavering support, open-mindedness, and nurturing.

In this discussion, we delve into the nuances of managing one of the leading publishing divisions within a major music company. We explore how Shani synergizes her seasoned judgment with the fresh perspectives of her team, even in areas where she continues to grow. And, we'll uncover her three key strategic plays.

You can follow Shani on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shani927/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ IG: @aiai.studios  

This podcast was recorded in April 2023.

In today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Dorothy Burwell for the second instalment of our Boardroom series. If you missed Episode 10, where Dorothy first joined us, make sure to listen to that enlightening discussion before diving into this episode.

I'm Aprileen, your host, and today with Dorothy, we're taking a deep dive into a crucial topic for aspiring leaders and executives: getting boardroom ready. Known for her strategic acumen in communications, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management, Dorothy brings a wealth of experience from her roles across FGS Global, Pennon Group Plc, and Post Holdings, not to mention her significant start at Goldman Sachs.

 Our discussion transcends typical boardroom preparations. We don't just talk about the skills and experiences required; we explore the often-overlooked aspects like understanding the importance of having an updated Board CV and how this differs to a regular CV.

Consider, for instance, the dynamics of navigating interpersonal and DEI issues at the executive level, where stakes and sensitivities are significantly higher. How do you address and incorporate these critical elements into corporate strategy and culture genuinely and effectively? Dorothy and I delve into these complex questions, drawing from her extensive background and personal experiences.

If Dorothy's insights strike a chord with you, or if you have your own questions about navigating the boardroom, and what it means to be board ready, feel free to send us your thoughts or queries athello@meetpursuit.com. Your input could be featured in one of our upcoming episodes. Get ready for an enriching and thought-provoking discussion!

You can follow Dorothy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dorothyburwell/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠⁠ IG: @aiai.studios  

Meet Dorothy Burwell, an experienced strategic communications partner, born in the US, currently living in London. With a remarkable career trajectory that began at Goldman Sachs, Dorothy’s arsenal of expertise spans nearly two decades across multifarious sectors, from natural resources to transport and technology. She’s steered communication strategies of giants such as Shell, easyJet, Adidas and many more.

Beyond aiding her clients in navigating the complex maze of stakeholder engagement and reputation building, Dorothy plays an instrumental role at Finsbury, orchestrating global marketing initiatives while championing diversity and inclusion. But it's not just about business for her. She passionately dedicates her time to upholding consumer rights and fostering societal inclusion, marking her position on the council of trustees for Which? and helming the London Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, an international women's charity and NGO. She also balances her career with passions such as dance, creative arts and travelling.

Having carved a niche for herself in the boardrooms of FGS Global, she is a Non-Executive Director at Pennon Group Plc – a FTSE 250 Company, and a Board Director at Post Holdings – a Fortune 500 Company. Dorothy's illustrious career is a testament to her unwavering dedication, hard work, planning and preparing for opportunities.

If you're eager to dive deep into the art of connecting, communicating, and championing causes, and balancing them all, this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways:

·      Her advice on coming into your first leadership position and managing personal expectations

·      Tips on managing corporate transitions; different roles in the same company or different roles in different companies within different industries

·      Dealing with personal and cultural identity in the workplace

·      Finding the right balance for you; balance is an individual’s choice

·      How she got her first boardroom role

·      Her three strategic career plays

You can follow Dorothy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dorothyburwell/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠ IG: @aiai.studios  

Published: 25/10/2023

Meet Thandi Maqubela, a self-described Sartorial Lawyer. She’s a distinguished commercial lawyer who has carved out a noteworthy career in both the UK and South Africa. As a dual jurisdiction lawyer, Thandi boasts 11 years of rich experience, transitioning from private practice into a pivotal role as an in-house legal expert. Currently at the helm as Director of Legal atDeloitte, she's known for her impeccable due diligence, contract negotiation acumen, and an unparalleled knack for risk management.

Educated at the University of Johannesburg and further specializing in anti-trust law from the University of the Witwatersrand, Thandi's educational foundation laid the groundwork for her ensuing excellence. Beyond her legal acumen, she is celebrated for her strong interpersonal skills, her ability to build trust across organisational hierarchies, and her unwavering commitment to pragmatic solutions. From leading teams of lawyers, spearheading learning and development in-house, to being a pivotal member of the Tax and Legal Black Action Plan Steering Committee, Thandi's multifaceted contributions to her craft is undeniable.

But to us, the Pursuit Community, Thandi is a Renaissance Woman. She’s someone who’s mastered the art of balance, what it specifically means to her, nurturing diverse passions – reading, skincare, fashion – and refining boundaries. She’s a testament to the power of curiosity, continually growing and recognising that nuance is key to the art of understanding.

Key Takeaways:

·      Her experience and advice on adapting to the UK corporate world

·      Her advice for mothers ambitious to succeed

·      The impact of a sponsor on her career

·      The balance between career identities and personal branding

·      Her three strategic career plays

You can follow Thandi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thandi-maqubela-03a91333/  and her IG for her sartorial recommendations:  https://www.instagram.com/thandimaq/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠ IG:@aiai.studios  

Published: 18/10/2023

Meet Kysha Gibson, an experienced management consultant in the telecommunications, media, and technology sector. As a pivotal figure in Accenture’s UKI Strategy & Consulting Management Board, Kysha, Managing Director, and Partner, is shaping the future workforce of the company by spearheading the Analyst Consulting Group (ACG). With 900+ diverse talent under ACG, she envisions them as the forefront of tomorrow’s leadership, both within Accenture and the broader industry.

Kysha attended the prestigious Wharton School for her undergrad, a recipient of a full scholarship and received an MBA, IE Business School, in Spain, also under scholarship. Much like her educational footprint, Kysha is extremely curious about the world, its cultures, and people, having travelled to over 120 countries.

In this conversation, we delve into her journey toward carving out a crucial ‘seat at the table’ in her career. She shares insights into her driving purpose, a profound passion for people, and the significance of nurturing early-stage talent in her leadership trajectory.

Key Takeaways:

·      Her advice knowing when to move on from a role

·      The impact of an MBA on her career

·      Adapting management styles as she progresses her career, and tips on managing these transformations

·      How to advocate for yourself in the workplace

·      Her three strategic career plays

You can follow Kysha on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyshagibson/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠ IG: @aiai.studios  

Anna-Lisa is business leader who proudly wears her heart on her sleeve; she doesn’t perceive this as a weakness, but more a strength and a testimony to her mantra – ‘Leading with Love, not Title’. Born and bred in Trinidad and Tobago, unique circumstances brought Anna-Lisa to the UK, where she’s built a successful career and personal life.

These circumstances alongside her work ethic led her to take career risks, quite early on, resulting in a storied career across diverse industries.

Anna-Lisa believes in building genuine relationships through earnest listening and embraces the philosophy -  ‘Good business is always personal. Listen without prejudice, and care deeply about what you do and the impact you have on your clients and communities.’

She’s an advocate for mentorship, a guiding light for young talent and fervently supports the rise of the next wave of female leaders within her communities.

Key Takeaways:

·      Her advice on tracking important milestones in your career

·      Strategies for having career conversations at work

·      How a career break can elevate your career

·      Crafting your personal leadership style

·      Her three strategic career plays

You can follow Anna-Lisa on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-lisa-wilcox/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠⁠ IG: @aiai.studios  

Akima, with an educational background rooted in Cambridge, holds a prestigious position as a litigation lawyer and Partner at Hogan Lovells – a law firm celebrated as one of the top three in the UK by Law.com in 2022. Her extensive academic journey also spans France, endowing her with fluency in French, Spanish, and English.

Acknowledged as a 'Maven,' Akima actively champions diversity, equity, and inclusion. She dedicates her efforts to mentorship, specifically aiding young Black women and women of colour within her communities. Her pathway to partnership, marked with varied experiences, highlights the robust networks and communities she has meticulously nurtured.

A steadfast and continual learner, Akima is grounded in the belief of perpetual personal self-development. Her unwavering love for her homeland, Grenada, has previously secured her a role as an ambassador to the Holy See. This dedication further paved the way for a recommendation to the Grenada High Commission in London.

Her firm commitment to the diaspora is evident. She founded Hogan Lovell’s Caribbean Desk, a significant initiative that provides invaluable advice to clients on transactions, projects, and disputes across the Caribbean region.

Key Takeaways:

·       Her advice on practicing authenticity and maintaining genuine behaviour in the workplace

·       Managing pregnancy alongside a significant career advancement

·       Emphasising the critical role of establishing robust relationships and networks

·      Striking a balance between motherhood and career aspirations

·      Her three strategic career plays

You can follow Akima on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akimapaullambert/

Join the community and sign up to the newsletter at ⁠www.meetpursuit.com⁠ and don’t forget to follow us on IG at @meetpursuit ⁠www.instagram.com/meetpursuit/⁠

This is an AiAi Studios Production - ⁠www.aiaistudios.com⁠ IG: @aiai.studios