Hale Independent Issue 179

15 MAY/JUNE 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk T: 0161 480 8171 | E: info@damartraining.com or visit our website: www.damartraining.com A specialist provider of apprentice recruitment and training TOP business leader and former senior government advisor Han- nah Gibson returned to her old school to tell the next generation to “embrace change”. The former King’s School head girl, known then as Hannah Roberts, is now chief executive Ocado Retail and was formerly a senior policy advisor to then Prime Minister David Cameron in Downing Street. The Bollington born Cambridge graduate was the special guest speaker at the Macclesfield’s schools annual Founders’ Day celebrations. She addressed Sixth Form pupils first at St Michael’s Parish Church and then pupils in Years 7-11 at King’s. The retail and tech expert had three key pieces of advice: “Firstly, give it your all. I have found the people who are most successful are those that really care, are passionate about what they do and want to do more.” She added: “Secondly, embrace change. I am doing things now that I could not even have imagined when I was at school and the pace of change is only getting faster and faster. “When I was at university, iPhones didn’t exist and when I left No 10, it was only just getting wi-fi - and now I work in a company where robots are picking customers groceries and where the world of work is going to carry on transforming. “Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. No matter what role I’ve been in throughout my career, I always know there are so many people who will have a better understanding of their specialist areas and better ideas than me. Ask for help, be part of a strong team.” Hannah was a straight A student at both GCSE and A Level, before study- ing politics and economics at Queen’s College, Cambridge, gaining a 2:1. A first team hockey player and Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award winner at King’s, she also took part in all man- ner of outdoor activities; orienteering in Scotland and even going on a lead- ership programme to Mongolia and visiting the Great Wall of China. Head of King’s Foundation Jason Slack said: “Hannah is a wonderful role model. Hard working, driven and innovative while being aware of the challenges faced by young peo- ple today. “It was lovely to see how warmly she was greeted by so many former teachers and staff.” Hannah shares her shopping list for success Advice: Hannah on the right-hand side of the bench is pictured with students, Jason Slack and director of external relations Caroline Johnson • Stunning 80-acre campus in Prestbury • Excellent GCSE & A-Level results • Unrivalled extra-curricular programme • 11+ Bursaries & Scholarships BOOK NOW www.kingsmac.co.uk www.kingsmac.co.uk | 01625 260000 The King’s School in Macclesfield Y ear 5 Taster Day Friday 4 July (for Senior entry September 2026) SCAN QR code ‘EXCELLENT ’ IN ALL AREAS - ISI Inspection 2022