The 2025 IoD Guernsey Leadership Shadowing Scheme, sponsored by KPMG, saw Poppy Elliott, from The Ladies’ College, awarded first place and a distinction at the annual awards evening.
Poppy, who shadowed Andrew Tually of Carey Olsen, presented her observations and learnings from her time at the law firm.
From over 45 participants, ten students were shortlisted for the finals. Millie Ogier (The Ladies’ College) and Ben Davidson (Elizabeth College) also received Distinctions. Jake Taylor, Aidan Granville (Elizabeth College), Polly Nickols, Bailey Austin (The Ladies College), Evie Le Prevost, Kiera Sperduto (The Sixth Form Centre) and Gabriel McConnell (Blanchelande) were highly commended.
The evening featured a keynote from technologist and founder Claire Owen, who mentors startups through the UK Space Agency and Geovation Accelerator Programs. Her talk on leadership and innovation captivated the audience.
Karen Power (IoD Guernsey Branch) and Linda Johnson (Advisory Partner at KPMG), who co-lead the Scheme, highlighted that the program is a significant team effort between industry, the students and teachers.
Karen Power, Committee Member of the IoD Guernsey Branch, said: “Opportunities like this play a vital role in connecting tomorrow’s leaders with today’s decision-makers. It’s inspiring to see the calibre of insights the students gain through this experience, and we’re grateful to the local leaders who continue to invest their time in developing future talent.”
Linda Johnson, Advisory Partner at KPMG, said: “Each year, we’re impressed by how the students bring fresh perspectives, energy and thoughtful reflection from their time shadowing Guernsey leaders. They demonstrated outstanding depth of understanding and innovation, which made for difficult judging when choosing a winner. Supporting this initiative remains a highlight for KPMG, and we were delighted to bring Claire Owen to Guernsey – sharing her knowledge and expertise on what it means to be a great leader.
“Sincere thanks to Camille Ross Burrows (Founder of Terrou Studio and sponsored by Source Recruitment) for coordinating student placements, matching them to leaders, Euan Melrose (IoD Next Gen Chair), and finals night judges: IoD Guernsey Chair, Glen Tonks; Ingrid Waterfield (KPMG); Brooke Kenyon (Orchard PR); and Julia Martin (Source Recruitment).”
Pictured: Linda Johnson, Poppy Elliott, Andrew Tually and Karen Power
