Get to know Madeline Somers Eve, Walpole's Head of Strategic Partnerships

When did you join Walpole and how did you come to work here?

I joined very recently, in May 2024. I have worked in luxury media for most of my career, including at Tatler Asia Group in Hong Kong, and Condé Nast in the UK, so Walpole had always been on my radar as a brilliant business that brings the whole industry together. I am absolutely delighted to now be a part of the team!

What do you do at Walpole?

I am Head of Strategic Partnerships. In this role, I oversee our strategic and associate partners, and lead on building the sponsorship element of our key events, including the Walpole British Luxury Awards and the Walpole British Luxury Summit. I also work on the wider commercial strategy of the business, looking at future projects and business ventures. 

What’s your favourite aspect of the job?

It is so varied and diverse. Walpole does brilliant things to serve the luxury sector across the board, which means being able to be a part of multiple interesting projects and working with a range of really impressive members and partner brands. It's great to be part of a company that knows its audience and its industry so well as it means the team are the best at what they do.

The best place for a work breakfast in London is: For the experience, I usually go to a Soho House across the city so I can make use of the gym or pool while I am there. And if the weather is lovely, as it currently is, you can sit outside with a view of the city and feel like you're on holiday for a little while. On food alone, the best breakfast I have had in London was at Chiltern Firehouse. 

My office beverage of choice is: A flat white with whole milk.

The last thing I read/listened to on my commute was: The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett. It has some of the most fascinating guests and I often find myself jotting down things I hear on it or saving clips to listen back to again. If I am tired and want something easy, then I love Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe's Parenting Hell - I regularly have to pause it as it has me laughing too much in a public place. 

The ultimate luxury under £25 is: A massage. For £25 you can get an express foot massage at Margaret Dabbs – it is such a treat!