Abi Bird
Summary
A dynamic leader with a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration, known for empowering teams and fostering a culture of trust and accountability. Demonstrates a hands-on leadership style, setting high standards while remaining approachable and supportive. Achieved the highest employee engagement score in the 2024 Voice of the Employee survey, reflecting a commitment to developing talent and motivating individuals to excel.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work history
Chief Commercial Officer
Expose Designs
2025.09 - Current
- I was head hunted while on maternity leave and the time felt right to start a new challenge.
- Established a sales team, along with implementing CRM tools, monthly reporting and targets.
- Streamlined commercial operations by implementing efficient processes.
- Initiated key customer relationships to drive revenue growth.
- Coordinated an annual budgeting process, ensuring financial discipline across departments.
- Formulated pricing strategies to enhance profitability.
- Identified new customer segments and target audiences to expand reach.
RFL: Culture
Head of Marketing/Marketing Director
Hitched.co.uk (The Knot Worldwide)
2019.04 - 2025.07
- Promoted from Head of Sales to establish and lead the marketing function, across both B2B & B2C.
- Built the marketing department from the ground up, developing strategy, processes and campaigns aligned with the business goals, whilst working closely with sales to create a seamless commercial approach.
- Drove brand growth, lead generation and commercial performance.
- Analysed competitor activity regularly to stay ahead in the market place.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive marketing strategies with a focus on brand recognition.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful product launches.
- Oversaw digital marketing campaigns across multiple platforms to drive traffic and increase conversions.
- Developed strategic partnerships with influencers.
Head of Sales
Hitched.co.uk (Immediate Media)
2015.01 - 2018.06
- In 2015 we were acquired by Immediate Media which saw a promotion to Head of Sales.
- Immediate Media wanted to drive quick growth. I successfully recruited and managed a team of 20 across both new business and client retention. Successfully hitting all revenue targets, resulting in winning the Immediate Media Commercial Person of the Year in 2016 and winning Commercial Team of the Year in 2017.
- During my time in this role we saw revenue dramatically increase by driving higher yields through new business and renewals whilst keeping retention rates at 95%.
- We expanded into new international markets, without sacrificing the excellent customer service to our existing UK client base.
- Influenced product development based on market insights, aiding in the creation of new advertising space.
- Optimised sales operations for maximisation of profitability.
- Set ambitious targets, sparking team motivation.
Venue Sales Executive
Hitched.co.uk
2006.06 - 2015.01
- I started my career at Hitched as a Sales Executive selling advertising space to venues in the wedding industry.
- During the 8 years in that role I hit every monthly target.
- Navigated challenging negotiations, achieving successful deal closure without compromising on profitability.
Sales Executive
Hydroserve
2005.04 - 2006.06
- I was a sales executive responsible for selling sewage treatment plants.
- RFL: Progression
Waitress
Millers Kitchen & So Tasty Events
2000.01 - 2006.01
- Part-time work
Sales Associate
Florida Car Hire
2002.07 - 2004.09
- I was a sales associate taking inbound calls booking car hire.
- RFL: Progression
Education
A-Levels - Business Studies (B), Geography (C), Graphics (C)
Farnham College
1 2000 - 1 2002
GCSE’s - 10 GCSE’s (A-C)
Weydon School
1 1995 - 1 2000
Skills
- My main super power is communication, I'm a firm believer that you an overcome any challenge by communicating
- I am a collaborative, hands-on leader, who leads by example, setting high standards while being approachable and supportive I believe in never asking my team to do something that I wouldn't do myself, which helps build trust and accountability, and above all a strong team culture
- My leadership style focuses on empowering people, developing talent and creating an environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to perform at their best This approach was reflected in the 2024 Voice of the Employee survey, where my department achieved the highest employee engagement score across the business, out of over 2,000 people
Accomplishments
- Winning Outstanding Commercial Person of the year award in 2016
- Winning Outstanding Commercial Team of the year award in 2017
- Driving Hitched through two acquisitions, being actively involved in the pitching and sale of the company to Immediate Media and then The Knot Worldwide
- 100% success rate in hitting yearly budgets whilst in sales and 100% success rate in hitting marketing targets
- Completing the Integral Leadership Programme which is the foundation to my leadership style
REFERENCES
Available upon Request
INTERESTS & ACTIVITIES
I have two beautiful daughters and a wonderful husband who keep me busy. In my free time (which is very rare!) I love to have fun with my girlfriends, either shopping or dinner!
Timeline
Chief Commercial Officer
Expose Designs
2025.09 - Current
Head of Marketing/Marketing Director
Hitched.co.uk (The Knot Worldwide)
2019.04 - 2025.07
Head of Sales
Hitched.co.uk (Immediate Media)
2015.01 - 2018.06
Venue Sales Executive
Hitched.co.uk
2006.06 - 2015.01
Sales Executive
Hydroserve
2005.04 - 2006.06
Sales Associate
Florida Car Hire
2002.07 - 2004.09
Waitress
Millers Kitchen & So Tasty Events
2000.01 - 2006.01
GCSE’s - 10 GCSE’s (A-C)
Weydon School
1 1995 - 1 2000
A-Levels - Business Studies (B), Geography (C), Graphics (C)
Farnham College
1 2000 - 1 2002