In this episode I speak with Megan Kelsall, People and Operations Manager at Kelpi, a startup focused on sustainability through innovative seaweed-based materials.

Megan shares her unique career journey, which began in the performing arts as a dancer before transitioning into the corporate world. She reflects on her ballsiness when working in a small business and convincing the MD that they needed a HR function because that's what she wanted to do.

Throughout the conversation, Megan discusses her rapid ascent in HR leadership roles, but how she's had to handle imposter syndrome along the way. She discloses her experiences in both small and larger corporate environments, and receiving different advice about which direction to follow with her career but ultimately taking ownership of what she felt was right for her.

Megan has primarily worked in businesses that operate within the sustainability sector and she explains what it is like working for companies that are B Copr certified, something she has helped them achieve within her work too.

A significant theme of the episode is the importance of mentorship and coaching in professional development. Megan recounts her experience working with a mentor who provided invaluable support during a challenging period in her career. Their discussions helped Megan build resilience, gain confidence, and develop a more nuanced understanding of workplace dynamics. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that mentorship can have on personal and professional growth, encouraging listeners to seek out mentors and embrace opportunities for learning and development.

Overall, this is an incredible episode that covers many points of interest so I hope you enjoy it.

Notes

🎙️ Introduction and Background (00:14 - 04:31)

• Megan introduced as HR professional from Bristol, originally from Preston

🏢 Career Discussion (04:31 - 09:05)

• Megan's career journey from dancer to HR professional
• Discussion about B Corps and their importance

💼 HR Role at Kelpie (09:05 - 13:54)

• Megan joined Kelpie as People and Operations Manager
• Kelpie develops seaweed-based material to replace single-use plastic
• Megan's role includes setting up HR systems and growing the team

🚀 Career Progression (13:54 - 25:41)

• Megan's fast-track career in HR discussed
• Importance of having HR in startups emphasized
• Megan's experience taking companies through B Corp certification process

🌱 B Corp Discussion (25:54 - 38:06)

• Explanation of B Corps and their focus on triple bottom line
• Megan's passion for working in purpose-driven organizations
• Challenges and benefits of B Corp certification process

👔 Job Search and Career Choices (39:41 - 54:38)

• Megan's experience job searching with specific criteria
• Discussion on different career paths in HR
• Importance of knowing oneself and pursuing the right career path

🏆 Work Experience and Growth (54:38 - 01:07:03)

• Megan's experience at Bluefield and reasons for leaving
• Discussion on outgrowing organizations and career progression
• Importance of celebrating employee growth and departures

🧠 Mentoring and Coaching (01:07:27 - 01:23:11)

• Megan's experience with mentoring and its impact on her career
• Benefits of having a mentor in HR profession
• Importance of finding the right mentor and being open to feedback

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