Lynne-Marie Howden

Director of Global Sales and Marketing

After graduating from St Andrews University in 1988 with MA Honours in English Literature, Lynne-Marie joined the British Airways Graduate Training Scheme.

After eighteen months in the company she was promoted to a Senior Buyer position. Two years later, she was appointed as Management Development Training Manager within Cabin Services. Here she managed a team of thirty trainers responsible for the delivery of training to both on-board and on-ground managers. She was also responsible for developing the first ever customised personal development programme for Cabin Services Managers.

In early 1994, Lynne-Marie left to establish her own business in training and consultancy. During the two and a half years she led the business, she worked with a number of major clients including TSB Bank and Courtaulds Textiles.

By 1996, she was yearning to be part of a bigger organisation again and accepted an offer from Mars Confectionery to join their sales force. As a National Account Manager within the Off Licence sector she managed a portfolio of accounts worth £12m. This was a perfect job for Lynne-Marie - combining two of life's great pleasures - chocolate and fine wines! During her time in this role, Lynne-Marie grew Mars' share of the confectionery market within Off Licence outlets to the highest level ever.

At the end of 1998, Lynne-Marie joined Insights. No stranger to the Insights organisation, Lynne-Marie had worked with Insights at BA, in her own business and at Mars. In essence, she liked the company so much that she decided to join it!

Lynne-Marie began as an Account Manager and managed accounts for British Airways, British Telecom, Pedigree Masterfoods, Sony and Bass. She quickly advanced to become National Sales Manager for the UK and is now Director of Sales and Marketing.

Lynne-Marie lives in a small village in Northamptonshire. She has a passion for running, writing and drinking wine while others cook!