​It may seem like a long way from a doctorate in zoology to a high-profile role in global business development, but we learn on this episode of Leaders With Ambition exactly why that path has made abundant sense for one dynamic executive.

Daisy Williamson, Head of BD for the M&A and Corporate practice at Freshfields, shares her unconventional path into corporate marketing and lessons learned along the way – some of them from the world of primates! This is a woman who has clear priorities and executes on them, whether in building effective teams or promoting equity in the workplace.

Daisy brings a bedrock belief that colleagues perform best when given the benefit of respect and autonomy from the outset. And if a career stretch triggers a bit of Imposter Syndrome, that’s okay, says Daisy. “To move forward, things have to feel a little uncomfortable sometimes and you don’t always do well. But you keep on trying, become more comfortable and grow into it.”

Learn about the tools this innovative leader brings to Freshfields and to her broader network across the sector.

You’ll also hear words of wisdom about fostering highly effective teams and the importance of staying personally open-minded, nimble and creative.