Gigi O’Brien

Current Employer/Organisation Name

EY

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

After graduating from Exeter with a Law degree in 2019, I moved into communications, drawn to the creative and strategic side of storytelling. I started my career in PR agencies working with global technology clients before joining EY. I now drive external communications for EY’s Financial Services division across Europe, managing campaigns, stakeholder engagement and thought leadership.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I was always interested in how ideas and messages influence people, and communications felt like the perfect blend of creativity and strategy. I love the variety of my role – collaborating across teams, bringing complex topics to life, and seeing how strong storytelling can shape reputation and drive real impact.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was part of Exeter Entrepreneurs, Surfing, Snowsports, Shooting, and Tennis Society.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I really enjoyed studying Family Law – it was one of the modules that first sparked my interest in how people and systems interact. Learning from His Hon. David Tyzack KC was a real highlight; his passion for the subject and practical insights brought the law to life. I also loved the sense of community at Exeter and the way the course encouraged critical thinking and debate.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

I loved the social side of Exeter – the green campus, vibrant student life, and close-knit community made it such a special place to study and make lifelong friends. The people were genuinely supportive and inspiring, creating an environment that was both motivating and fun.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I was drawn to Exeter for its strong reputation for Law and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere when I visited. It felt like a place where I could be challenged academically while also enjoying a great student experience and sense of community.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

My Law degree gave me a strong foundation in research, critical thinking and clear communication, which are all skills I use every day in my career. It taught me how to analyse complex information, build persuasive arguments and pay attention to detail, which are essential in developing effective campaigns and communicating with senior stakeholders.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Be proactive about building your network and gaining work experience. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and look for internships or short placements – they’re invaluable for developing practical skills and understanding what areas you enjoy most. So many opportunities in communications come from conversations and connections, so don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and learn from others.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m excited to continue growing my career in strategic communications, working on global campaigns that make an impact and connect people through ideas. In the long term, I hope to take on more leadership responsibility and help shape how organisations communicate in an increasingly digital and connected world.