Spotlight On: Jeannie Ivanov

We believe our people make all the difference, and our newest Client Partner, Jeannie Ivanov , is a shining example of that. Known affectionately as "The Motivator", Jeannie brings a rare blend of commercial leadership, transformation expertise, and marketing brilliance to every project. 

With a track record of launching global brands, reshaping organisational cultures, and driving sustainable growth, she has an uncanny ability to make change happen, and bring everyone along for the ride. 

This month’s Spotlight On is all about her...

• Can you start by introducing yourself and giving a brief overview of your background and consulting experience? 

My career background is all B2B marketing. As an English Literature graduate without a predetermined career path, I secured a place on Vodafone’s B2B graduate scheme and found that I loved the pace, energy, variety and creativity of life as a marketer. Having cut my teeth at Vodafone I expanded my experience in a range of sectors, companies and roles, finishing with five years as global marketing director with assurance business LRQA. 

From there, in January 2025 I made the jump to consulting, to enable me to play to my key strengths, on my terms. I've absolutely loved building my business and connecting with clients to deliver value. 

• What do you love most about the work you do? 

Getting to the root of a business challenge and finding a practical, realistic solution, together with my clients. 

• What do you think stands smart/tasking apart from other business consultancy services? 

When I found smart/tasking, what stood out to me was the clarity of the proposition, and the emphasis on delivering both value and results. I also love the focus that smart/tasking places on corporate comms - I've seen many projects and transformations fail in organisations due to a lack of clear and consistent communication, and experts in this field are often undervalued. 

• What’s one myth about transformation you’d love to bust? 

That it can be achieved by creating a ring-fenced transformation team, that carries out the orders of an executive team. In my experience, transformation can only truly be delivered if every single colleague understands, believes in, and works towards the goal. 

• From your background in brand and marketing, what’s one lesson more businesses should apply to how they work? 

It's difficult to pick just one! I'd like to see more businesses invest in training that enables every colleague to articulate their brand proposition. Your people are your most important asset and if they love and understand the brand, they will become a powerful marketing asset. 

• What do you do outside of work that helps you stay energised and inspired? 

I'm a sports addict. I spend a lot of time throwing weights around and coaching people in my CrossFit gym, and if I'm not there I might well be in front of the television or at a live sports match (this summer is heaven: Wimbledon, Women's Rugby World Cup, Women's Euros and the Lions Tour). Current inspiration sources include Sarah Bern (Red Roses rugby player), Alessia Russo (The Lionesses number 9) and a woman at the gym who can deadlift 105kg at the age of 71.