Two Mins With… Abby Jackson

Company: National Museums Liverpool

Position: Corporate Partnerships Manager

What do you actually do day-to-day?

As Corporate Partnerships Manager, I work with companies to support National Museums Liverpool through partnerships, donations, or gifts in kind and ensure our partners receive meaningful benefits in return, from visibility and networking opportunities to tailored experiences and recognition. My role is extremely relationship driven, so a big part of my work is keeping people happy, engaged, and supported. I spend a lot of time making sure partners are getting real value, whether that’s through regular catchups, connecting them with the right opportunities, or delivering on what we’ve promised.

I also keep an eye on what’s coming up in our venues to spot chances to collaborate. Part of my role is putting together tailored proposals and presentations, and I spend a lot of time meeting with partners and potential clients to explore new ideas. And, of course, there’s plenty of networking along the way!

What experiences or influences guided you toward your current profession?

I first joined National Museums Liverpool while at university, volunteering in the marketing department after a member of the museums marketing team delivered an inspiring talk about careers in museums – something that had never been on my radar. I had always loved visiting the museums with my parents and grandparents as a child, so I had a lot of happy memories associated with them, but I had never considered actually working in one.

I then managed to get a paid position at the Maritime Museum as a tour guide. It was great fun and really helped build my confidence in public speaking and engaging with people from all walks of life. Not long after, I joined the Development Team and began working in corporate partnership and I haven’t looked back since.

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

Focus on what you want, not what you lack, your energy follows your attention, and what you give your attention grows.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership means guiding others with integrity, kindness, and respect, making decisions that are fair whilst valuing every individual. I feel a true leader absorbs pressure without letting it overwhelm the team and exudes clarity so others can act with confidence. People must feel supported, heard and valued.

What has been your favourite Professional Liverpool event and why? / If you are a new member, which event are you most looking forward to attending and why?

When I returned from maternity leave the first event I attending was the Professional Liverpool Summer Social. It felt wonderful to be back out in a professional setting, and the sunny weather made enjoying a rooftop drink with incredible views even more special. That said, the Aperol Spritz tasting event was a close second, even though I have never been able to look at one since.

What’s your favourite TV programme?

Game of Thrones when it was on but now it’s Virgin River (quite the contrast!)

How do you relax?

Walking in nature, mainly forests, something about trees makes me feel relaxed. Also, you can’t beat a good film and takeaway with a nice glass of red!

Which do you prefer: sweets or chocolate? And what’s your favourite?

I am more of a savoury person so it would have to be a big bag of Doritos and some salsa dip.

Pub or club? There’s nothing better than a cosy pub with an open fire after a long walk.

Do you have any hobbies?

I love to ski (when I get the chance), go on long walks, read books, go out for meals and spend time with my family and friends.

Go to karaoke song?

Belinda Carlisle – Heaven is a place on Earth

Favourite venue in Liverpool? Speke Hall has to be one of my favourite places, I’ve spent a lot of time there with my family, both as a child and now as a parent, and it’s full of genuinely happy memories (mainly spent building dens with my two little boys these days.) More central though it has to be the Walker Art Gallery (not biased at all) you can just exhale and switch off from the outside world in there, all while being surrounded by beautiful art.