Lisa Graham
Senior Manager - AGM
Introduction and what your role is at EQ?
I have worked for Equiniti for 37 years. During this time I have held various management positions and for the past 25 years or more have headed up a team dedicated to the delivery of shareholder meetings. This specialist area has seen increased focus and a lot of change over the years including updates to the Companies Act, Shareholders Rights Directive and Listing Rules.
What office are you located at and tell us something special about this location?
Highdown House, Worthing.
Worthing has a number of benefits; I am less than 15-minute walk from home to the office and on the days I am not travelling I have quick and easy access to both the South Downs in one direction and the sea in another. Spoilt for choice, especially on a hot summers’ day.
What’s happened in your career to this points?
I started all those years ago as a school leaver and when technology was not as advanced. Share registers being updated overnight rather than real time. How things have changed!
In recent years I have attended and managed numerous contentious meetings, including requisitioned meetings/resolutions, adjournments and ad-hoc procedural matters. I could tell several stories about AGMs and how they have changed over time. Once offering lavish lunches, gifts etc. to the meeting we see today being more tailored to the business it was intended for with a cup of tea and/or coffee and a biscuit.
What do you like about EQ?
The people, I have made some lifelong friends over my time at EQ.
What’s your biggest EQ achievement?
I was instrumental in the delivery of the UKs first digital AGM (Annual General Meeting) for luxury clothing accessories brand Jimmy Choo and have since delivered many digital/hybrid AGMs (Annual General Meeting) for corporate clients.
What you are looking forward to in the future at EQ?
Enhancing our technology allowing us to continue to grow our client base and offer new and exciting products.
Do you have a fun fact or hobby about yourself?
I like to enjoy time in the garden although only when the sun is shining and preferably with a cold glass of something in my hand.
A big thank you to Lisa for sharing her thoughts with us.