Name:

Laura Smales

Role at Rise at Seven

Client Services Director - heads up our existing client services team. Responsible for client satisfaction, retention and commercial planning and growth. Setting the standards of what good client services look like.

Where did it all start for you?

I started my working life at 16 in a busy restaurant in Ireland, my first for working in a fast paced environment! After completing my A-levels, which was a strong focus on science, 18 lessons a week, I moved to Leeds at 18 to do my BSc in Public Health Studies. Throughout university, I worked in hospitality, where my passion for the business started.

Alongside studies and my part time job in hospitality, I began my professional career in the NHS as a Health Promotion Specialist. After graduating there were limited opportunities in Leeds at the time, so looked for a Monday to Friday job, that led me to accept a job at Stickyeyes, a marketing agency.

That decision changed everything. I quickly discovered a strong interest in Client Services, I loved building client relationships, creating presentations, and being a trusted representative for the agency. Aged 22 I joined the Client Services team and by 27 I had progressed from Account Executive to Account Director. I spent 12 incredible years at Stickyeyes, growing personally and professionally.

Now at Rise, I’m using that experience to help build and shape the Client Services function, driving growth and setting the foundation for long-term success. I love being part of a journey and contributing to building something great again.

Experience so far:

I’ve been so lucky to be part of so many amazing brands and work, the list is endless ghd, Hertz, Tommee Tippee, Kroger, CWT, Cath Kidston, SIXT, Emirates group, Canon, Leeds Building Society, hard to choose just one!

What I’m best at:

Commercial knowledge one of the go to individuals at Rise and helping to find solutions to clients problems.

What I’m known for:

Work related, PINK SHEETS - does that count ha (all Risers will understand) and the irish slang from time to time. Personally, I’m known to be very family oriented, I love family time not only with my husband and little girl, but with my huge Irish family being one of eight!

Strong opinion I have about my craft:

To be an amazing Account Manager, be seen as a driver and a consultant for your clients.

Fun fact:

I’m a country girl at heart, I’m from the hills of Donegal, Ireland where the neighbours were mostly sheep! Although some may say my choice of footwear is questionable, you’ll always find me in heels.