Lucy Marks shares her inspiring journey from studying classical music to becoming a pivotal figure in the business community as the leader of Norfolk Network. With a passion for connecting people and fostering meaningful relationships, Lucy has created a supportive space for professionals to learn, collaborate, and grow.
By Charlotte Buckman
26/11/24
Q: Could you tell us about the journey that led you to where you are today and what motivated you to focus on helping others grow their businesses and build their network?
A: “I studied classical music, majoring in performance at university. However, I decided that I didn’t want a career as a classical musician. I found that the hours of solitary practice and fierce competition didn’t suit me. The part of my course I did enjoy was playing in orchestras and singing in choirs. I also played in pop and folk bands and busked in Norwich and across Italy. This is when I particularly enjoyed meeting lots of different people. I returned to Norwich to work and was lucky to find a junior PR role in local television. It was an opportunity to interact with lots of inspirational people. I then found a unique role at the University of East Anglia, building a peer support network for health professionals. They were trailblazers for a pioneering MSc in Health Sciences. I was in my element organising networking events, and this probably paved the way for leading Norfolk Network.
Before Norfolk Network, I didn’t know anything about business, but I was fascinated by the possibilities of connections between people from different fields and experience in business. Back in 2003, when the Norfolk Network was founded, the networking culture was corporate, transactional, inauthentic, and intimidating! At Norfolk Network, we infused creativity into events and attracted exceptional speakers with compelling stories. We created a welcoming environment—an authentic culture—where people could learn, support each other, and make trusted new connections. I learned that, although I was a talented musician, I didn’t seek the limelight. Instead, I have a skill for finding people’s stories and offering them the stage to inspire others. I’m one of life’s connectors, and I don’t take my skill for making meaningful introductions for granted. There have been so many successful outcomes, and it’s rewarding to be a small part of someone’s journey.”
Q: You’re known for mentoring and advising others. What is your philosophy on mentorship, and how has it shaped your career?
A: “Everyone should seek out mentoring—whether informal or professional. My first mentor was a PR professional who demanded very high standards from me, but she was also a nurturer and helped me with both my personal and career development. Informal mentoring is a big benefit of being part of the Norfolk Network community. When you’re facing a challenge, you can trust someone to help you resolve it. It’s often lonely being a founder, CEO, MD, or self-employed. Getting fresh perspectives and insight from a peer or someone more experienced—who has probably been through something similar—can help you and save you a lot of time! Everyone should experience being a mentor. I’ve mentored students and found it very rewarding. You learn something about yourself, and self-reflection is really useful.”
Q: How important do you believe networking is for business success, and what advice would you give to someone who is just starting to build their professional network?
A: “Nothing beats face-to-face interactions. We should make time for networking events. Nothing can replace the human touch—the empathy, the nuance, the genuine connection. Meeting new people helps you gain fresh perspectives, expand your knowledge, and encounter new ideas. This, in turn, helps you innovate and overcome challenges. Everyone needs a quality and diverse network, so making new connections and nurturing relationships is vital. When you are active in the local business community, your profile is high, and you become known for your expertise. You can also learn about other businesses and understand their challenges. For someone just starting to build their professional network, I’d recommend attending lots of different events at first to develop your communication and networking skills. Networking costs you time and energy, so be selective about which events you attend. LinkedIn is powerful networking tool, so be active on this platform—optimise your profile and connect with people you’ve met.”
Q: Why is it important for you to step away from work, and what do you enjoy doing during that time?
A: “I really make an effort to step back from my work and have a change the scene. It’s important for my physical and mental wellbeing. It’s so easy to overwork at something you love doing. I work hard, and Norfolk Network is on my mind most of the time! However, I never dive into another project without taking a break. I enjoy cultural activities such as going to galleries, taking city breaks, listening to music, or going for walks in nature. Time with my family is precious. It’s so important to recharge and refresh my mind.”
Q: For people reading who might not know much about the Norfolk Network, can you explain more about what you do how you help businesses?
A: “Norfolk Network is a business membership organisation that brings together founders and directors of innovative SMEs and self-employed professionals from all sectors, disciplines, and levels of experience. People join Norfolk Network to be part of a vibrant and supportive community—to learn from the experience of others, raise their profile, share knowledge and expertise, find opportunities to collaborate, and make meaningful connections. We take a personalised approach to helping members connect. At an onboarding meeting, I learn about each member’s expertise and current business needs, so I can facilitate valuable networking and introductions. We run one or two events each month and draw inspiration for speakers from our members. These events range from roundtable discussions and panels to entrepreneurial success stories.”
To learn more about the Norfolk Network, visit their website. For any inquiries or to get in touch directly, you can email Lucy here.
