Interview with Caroline Plumb, Group CEO of Gravita
"Gravita CEO Caroline Plumb Shares Rejection from Richard Branson in Pursuing Her Business Venture"
Caroline Plumb, the dynamic Group CEO of Gravita, shares her career journey and insights about the City in this week's Square Mile and Me.
resume
- Name: Caroline Plumb
- Position: Group CEO, Gravita
- Co-founder: Fresh Minds (Innovation and Recruitment Consultancy)
- Founder and CEO: Fluidly
- Age: 46
- Birthplace: Manchester
- Current Residence: Surrey
- Education: Bolton School, Engineering Economics and Management at St John's College, Oxford
- Passions: Driving technological change, scaling businesses, quickly falling asleep
- Inspiration: "Never play the princess when you can be the queen." - Clementine Paddleford
- Favorite part of the job: Hearing praises about my team and clients
- Beverage: Skinny latte (coffee), Espresso Martini (cocktail)
- Book: You Talkin' to Me? by Sam Leith
What was your first gig?
My initial job was at a shoe shop, earning £1.79 per hour before the introduction of minimum wage at the age of 16.
Your first City role:
My City career began when I founded Fresh Minds, an innovation and recruitment consultancy based in Covent Garden.
When did you realize you wanted to become an entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurship wasn't my childhood dream. However, meeting my business partner during the dot-com boom and witnessing the success of pioneers like Martha Lane Fox and Brent Hoberman sparked the idea. The excitement was contagious, and we took the leap to establish our first company.
The entrepreneurial landscape has evolved significantly over time. Support and resources were scarce when I started out, and networking opportunities were limited to groups like First Tuesday. Today, there is a thriving business ecosystem in the City, making it easier for aspiring entrepreneurs to find the necessary support and resources.
What do you love most about the City of London?
London's historic architecture coexisting with modern structures reflects the vibrant and dynamic culture of the city. The City has grown to become the epicenter of the technology, financial, and scale-up communities, making it feel like home to me.
If you could change one thing…
...it would be reducing public transportation costs, making it more accessible for everyone and easing the expense of commuting to work.
Most memorable business lunch/dinner:
During my final term at university, a consulting firm took the entire course for a smart dinner. Across the room was Richard Branson, whom I boldly beckoned over for advice on starting my own business. Although he suggested taking the consulting job instead, it was an unforgettable experience.
Business blunders:
Probably the time I beckoned Richard Branson over during someone else's recruitment event!
Proudest Moments:
Getting glowing client feedback that mentions a team member who went the extra mile is always heartwarming.
Role Models:
Various influential figures inspire me, including Elona Mortimer-Zhika (former Iris CEO), Alex Mahon (Channel 4 CEO), Lindsay Pattison (WPP), and Dawn Marriot (Hg Capital).
Best advice received:
"Know what you don't know... and then find someone who does."
Worst advice received:
"Take the safe job!"
Optimism for the year ahead:
I am optimistic about Gravita's future, as there are numerous opportunities on the horizon. However, the broader business environment is tough, with clients facing challenges like rising costs and employers' NI. Though I remain hopeful, it is essential to stay neutral and realistic on the current business landscape.
Lunch destination:
Ottolenghi, located near Gravita's office, offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
After-work drinks:
I have two favorite spots: Discount Suit Company, a speakeasy in Spitalfields, and The King's Arms near Waterloo Station. It boasts a casual atmosphere, easy access, and a Thai restaurant in the back.
Weekday Home Address:
Surrey, Claygate.
Weekend Hangouts:
Supporting my children during sports matches or going for a run are typical weekend activities.
Vacation Time:
Two-week break in Mongolia, exploring the country's culture and history with my family. My kids might prefer a beach vacation in Mexico or the Maldives, though.
- Caroline Plumb, the Group CEO of Gravita, shares her admiration for driving technological change and scaling businesses.
- Caroline's City career began when she founded Fresh Minds, an innovation and recruitment consultancy based in Covent Garden.
- The entrepreneurial landscape has evolved significantly over time, with the City now offering a thriving business ecosystem.
- London's dynamic culture, combining historic architecture and modern structures, is something Caroline Plumb cherishes about the City.
- Caroline would like to see reduced public transportation costs to make it more accessible for everyone.
- An unforgettable experience for Caroline took place during her final term at university, when she dared to ask Richard Branson for advice during a business lunch.
