Hay There, Poppy!

This month, we sat down with Poppy, our Marketing and Design Executive. Poppy has been with us for over two years, originally starting in a different role as part of the Equine Care Team. She’s now been able to combine her two big passions, and her creativity continues to inspire us every day!

How long have you been at The Horse Trust and what’s your role?

I’ve been at The Horse Trust for 2 years and 4 months now! I’m the Marketing and Design Executive, working within the Fundraising and Marketing team.

What inspires your creativity?

I’ve always been creative and find inspiration wherever I go. I am lucky that I come from a creative family and was brought up in the arts. I also love spending time to take in our wonderful environment and getting to know our residents – they inspire a lot of my design work.

What brought you here?

Before The Horse Trust, I worked in interior design and studied Fine Art at university. I also run a small business producing and selling my artwork. Although I had no previous experience working with horses, I’d spent every spare moment at yards and have loaned and shared ponies. When the opportunity came up to join the Equine Care Team, I jumped at it and had an amazing year caring for our horses, ponies and donkeys. I was fortunate to then join the Fundraising and Marketing team which allows me to combine my passions and work with the horses I love in a creative capacity.

What sparked your love of horses?

I’ve always had a passion for horses which began as soon as I could say the word “horse”, much to my non-horsey parents’ despair! I think it’s a hereditary love that skipped a generation as my nan was also horse-mad! They’re such gentle animals, and it is hard not to find them comforting and beautiful. I have spent most of my life around them in some form or another, and I wouldn’t be me without them. When I am with horses, I feel calm and peaceful.

Do you have a particular favourite at The Horse Trust, and why?

When I was a groom, my absolute favourite was Loxley. He sadly passed but Orcadia and Aquaba were close seconds. I remember Urbane joining the herd and spending some time relaxing and recovering from a dog attack. He was particularly friendly with Loxley and wanted to play, as a much younger fitter horse. The old boys gave it a good go, but Urbane soon settled into the slower pace of life our residents are used to.

We heard a little rumour… you recently got a horse of your own!

Haha, yes! My little Honey came home a few weeks ago. She’s my first horse. She’s a 14.1hh, 5-year-old dun Connemara. She has settled in really well and seems to be enjoying her new life. Working at The Horse Trust has given me the knowledge and confidence to take this step, and the support I’ve had from friends and colleagues has been really touching.

What’s something people might not realise about working in Marketing for a horse charity?

How much is involved! We’re marketing to both national and global audiences, which plays a huge part in helping us care for our horses. It feels like a big responsibility representing The Horse Trust to the public.

What do you love most about your role?

I love that no two days are the same. Fundraising and Marketing covers so much, so the opportunities to learn are endless. It’s fast-paced and ever-changing, which keeps us on our toes. Our office is based on the yard, so we’re lucky enough to see the horses every day while also getting to share their stories through social media, events, open days and more. Our team is able to collaborate on so many exciting projects, and I’m looking forward to seeing where the future will take us.

Is there a memory that stands out for you at The Horse Trust?

One I’ll always remember is the arrival of Vida and Quaker. Being able to film their arrival, seeing them released into their fields where they would spend time resting and recovering, was wonderful. They are such characterful horses and I was very glad to have met them.

What would you say to someone considering a career working with horses – or in Fundraising?

Even if people think you’re mad for changing career paths to follow a passion, go for it! You never know where it might take you. Working with horses is hard work, but it’s so rewarding. They’re incredible animals and I feel lucky to be surrounded by them every day.

Thank you Poppy, for sharing your incredible story and for all the work you do!

We’re currently hiring for the positions of Groom and Senior Groom. If this sounds like your dream role, check out our vacancies below!

Job Opportunities