Every year, the Shining Star Awards bring together teams from across Churchill Group. It’s a moment to celebrate the people within our business who go above and beyond every day, through their dedication and hard work.
This year, we were especially proud to see one of our own in the spotlight. Our Operations Director, Gabbie Lapompe, was named as a finalist, an achievement that reflects not only her outstanding leadership but also the positive impact she has across our teams and clients.
The Inspirer Award
This award category celebrates natural leaders who set a clear vision, inspire their teams to succeed, champion development and wellbeing, implement new ideas and challenge the status quo. It celebrates individuals who lead not just through direction, but through care, courage and who’s guidance leave a lasting impact.
This year’s judge for this award, Laura Waller Brown, highlighted why Gabbie stood out across multiple nominations. She shared that Gabbie consistently demonstrated every quality this category celebrates, from prioritising team wellbeing to creating an inclusive, proactive and strategic environment where people feel valued and able to grow.
A leader when it mattered most
At the end of 2024, On Verve went through a significant structural change. Gabbie stepped forward and took on the responsibility of leading the team through moments of uncertainty for both clients and colleagues. She stepped up to the role of interim director whilst not missing a beat with her usual responsibilities. The team widely recognises her as a natural leader with a calming presence, whose priority is always to selflessly support those around her.
Fara Painter, Operations Support at On Verve, just one of Gabbie’s colleagues who nominated her for this award, said:
“She creates an inclusive, positive, and proactive environment where people feel valued and heard. Her leadership has cultivated a team that is not only high-performing but also deeply connected and invested in each other’s success. She doesn’t just manage operations; she elevates people.”
She guided the team and supported clients with clarity and warmth during times of uncertainty. Through the structural changes and beyond, she continues to lead, support and inspire as new challenges come her way.
When Gabbie was asked what being nominated for the Inspirer Award meant to her:
“What does it mean to me? It’s an absolute honour! I do what I do, because I love what I do, and this recognition is a reminder that this then has a positive impact on others, specifically my team. Being a finalist in the Inspirer category means so much, and a genuine source of motivation that keeps me striving each day.”
Cheryl-Anne Cooper, Chief DayMaker, captured what Gabbie brings to On Verve:
“Gabbie is the heartbeat of collaboration and creativity. She makes sure every team member feels supported and clear on what’s needed, while adding her own unique sparkle to every delivery. Gabbie’s fearless approach to challenging the norm and her passion for bringing fresh ideas to life make her a true catalyst for positive change someone who lifts others and inspires excellence every single day.”
Gabbie’s impact can be felt not only in how she supports people, but in how she drives meaningful change. One example is her introduction of a streamlined communication system that transformed how teams collaborate across On Verve. The new approach significantly improved efficiency and reduced cross-departmental delays. But more importantly, it created a culture where individuals felt empowered to take ownership of their work.
Gabbie’s journey and her nomination is a reminder of what being a great leader is about. It’s about showing up when it counts, caring deeply for the people around you, and finding moments to bring joy and creativity even in challenging times.
We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Gabbie as a Shining Star finalist. She embodies everything On Verve strives for: thoughtful, bold, uplifting, and always human.
Congratulations Gabbie. You inspire us every day.
