About

The pioneers of story-driven change

Over 20 years we’ve developed a unique methodology combining the art and science of storytelling to help leaders inspire and galvanise their teams. Co-creating a simple, clear and emotionally-compelling narrative, our approach brings clarity and meaning, motivates everyone in the organisation to explore what the story means for their part of the business, and how they can all play their part.

To make the magic happen, our world-class team brings together a truly unique blend of expertise, skills and exceptional talent to create fully-integrated programmes – from change consultancy, executive facilitation and alignment, to impactful creative campaigns and films, immersive digital and live event production, and leadership capability-building.

Our outstanding track record working with over 200 organisations worldwide is unrivalled, with tangible evidence of cultural and behavioural change, and significantly improved engagement, confidence in leadership, productivity and customer satisfaction scores.

Senior leadership team

After 30 years at M&S, I decided to join a fledgling group of storytelling entrepreneurs on their extraordinarily successful journey. My passion for the performing arts and all things theatrical plays beautifully to my role as Chairman, facilitator, navigator and coach, and it gives me great pleasure – when I’m not involved in the latest West End show – to inject our magic and emotion into our clients’ businesses.

Martin Clarkson

Chairman

Before co-founding The Storytellers, I spent years in music, TV and live events. As Chief Executive I’m responsible for taking the business to the next level and building a bright long-term future: whether driving strategy with the senior leadership team or finding and developing the fantastic talent that makes us who we are. My home life is the antithesis to our busy Covent Garden offices. Therapy for me lies in the land, which I make the most of on our smallholding in rural Gloucestershire.

Chris Spencer

Chief Executive

I’m always focused on our growing client base, which has surpassed all expectations since we started nearly 18 years ago. Bravery and tenacity are qualities we hold dear at The Storytellers, and I guess my adventurous pastimes – from shooting to diving, skiing, and cycling – helps me keep my competitive edge sharp in work and play

Alison Esse

Co-founder and Director

What a journey… over 17 years… the privilege of advising over 90 CEO’s and senior teams… travelling from Istanbul to Santiago… the science behind the art… and hearing from our clients how storytelling has changed their lives. I call myself a corporate tourist, which is a move up from the busker I was in my youth. Though even now nothing gives me greater pleasure than to bash out a tune on the old piano

Marcus Hayes

Co-founder and Director
Marcus Iles Chief Storytelling Officer at The Storytellers

Marcus’s passion and expertise lies in combining business strategy, communication and creativity to deliver solutions that resonate and deliver. His illustrious creative career spans multiple disciplines, leading multi-platform external and internal communications campaigns for clients across all sectors, including Coca-Cola, Dacia, EE, Harrods, Morrisons, Nissan, Renault UK, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Royal Mail, Save the Children and Unseen.

Marcus Iles

Chief Storytelling Officer

In a world where narrative has never been more important, I love working with people every day to show the impact it can have – to guide us, connect us and help us to understand each other. I’ve always been inspired to help people adapt to and champion change with a background in technology services and transformation. Now I’m able to combine this with the art and science of storytelling. When I’m not storytelling, I’m mentoring young people, keeping fit or running a book club

Hannah Moyo

Head of Consulting

I believe in the power of live events and a shared emotional experience. With a background in cultural studies, production and performing in theatre, live TV and comedy, I enjoy discovering storytelling in different contexts, spaces and media. Outside work I try to absorb as much of the London arts scene as time will allow, getting hands-on with projects when I can.

Amy Clarkson

Head of Special Projects

I’m motivated by moving people to do great things. I’ve worked all around the world with family offices, blue chips and fast growth start-ups all looking to enable and inspire their people to make a difference. Storytelling is an incredibly powerful way to connect people to meaning and purpose. It’s also my fascination – one I feed by travelling to cultural and historic hubs at every opportunity

Robert Tennant

Associate Director - Client Strategy

In Film, TV and Digital Production, I’ve told stories in one shape or another throughout my career. I believe in the transformative power of narrative, and I love collaborating with clients to find the best medium to bring their story to life. Outside the office I’m a chef for a pop-up restaurant, an avid film-goer and a classically trained singer. Ask me anything about dystopian Austrian Auteur Michael Haneke.

Doireann O’Rourke

Head of Delivery Operations

Join the team

We’re always on the lookout for talented storytellers and original thinkers to join our team. We love new thinking, new skills, and new ways of sharing the power of story. Get in touch at workwithus@thestorytellers.com.

Please indicate the role you are interested in applying for in the subject line of your email and let us know about your passion for storytelling, past experience and how you can help us grow our capabilities.

 

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