Digital insurance unicorn Marshmallow has appointed Caroline Gillard as its first chief people officer as it looks to scale its culture.
High-growth firm Marshmallow recently announced a £62 million Series B fundraise, which valued the company at $1.25bn, making it one of the first UK unicorns founded by people of black heritage.
Having previously held roles at Babylon Health, Moonpig, McArthurGlen and Skype, Gillard will lead the company’s people, talent and learning operations.
She will report to Alexander Kent-Braham, co-founder and co-CEO.
Marshmallow also recently appointed Sam Knott as VP of marketing to support its efforts to build brand awareness, reputation and engagement as the company continues on its ambitious growth plans, which have already seen customers double in the last 12 months.
He joined from Dyson, where he had served as the company’s global e-commerce director and held marketing director roles in Japan and the US, helping build a globally recognisable brand and boost revenue growth.
Having increased its headcount by more than 200% in the past year, the company expects to hire 400 people over the next 24 months, expanding into new markets and building new products.
“Both Caroline and Sam bring with them a wealth of experience, having spent time at a variety of high profile companies,” said Oliver Kent-Braham, co-founder and co-CEO.
“Our culture has always been a strategic advantage. As we enter a new phase of growth and development, I’m excited to welcome Caroline and Sam to the company, and I know both will have an enormous impact.”