About me

I’m Poppy Johnson

I help leaders and ambitious Chiefs of Staff do their best work

I’ve had the privilege of working at some of the world’s leading companies and institutions. As a creative problem-solver, I thrive on building environments where teams and leaders can excel.

My experience spans strategy consulting, in-house leadership, and the Chief of Staff role, giving me a deep understanding of what it takes to drive impact at the highest levels - and how to help people be at their best and work in alignment with their natural talents and values.

This led to my dual mission with Chiefly: Enable Chiefs of Staff to excel authentically and confidently, and work with founders and leaders to supercharge their impact, refine their strategic thinking, and build partnerships that truly work.

I also share the lessons I wish I’d known earlier; I know my experiences can become valuable insights you can apply right now. If you're ready to sharpen your toolkit, navigate challenges with confidence, and build your role in a way that works for you, let’s talk.

My professional and educational background

I bring 15+ years corporate experience - plus a couple of years in the public sector. Some highlights:

  • Became Chief of Staff to CEO in the Aerospace industry

  • Hired directly as an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company in London - part of the Automotive practice

  • Brought in-house to Ford Motor Company as strategy lead

  • Promoted twice at Accenture where I focused on Energy and cyber security

I’m a linguist by education, but have also turned my hand to finance:

  • BA Joint Honours in Modern Languages from University of Bristol, UK (Spanish and Italian)

  • Investment Management Certificate (IMC) holder

As a northern state-schooler, I’m passionate about social mobility and am committed to doing my bit for education:

  • Vice-Chair of Board of Governors at London primary school

And just for fun…

  • I love being out in nature

    Especially in Scotland, my adoptive home and my happy place. But I also love the Mediterranean. And the Alps. And Italy.

    Landscape image of the Scottish highlands, with a river running between green hills

  • I love being at home

    I love hosting friends and family; menu planning, getting to show them my new home, and catching up over wine.

    Four people next to a table where there are drinks, candles and plants. We can't see their faces. They are chatting.

  • I love animals

    Cats are my favourite (that’s my cat Bruce in the picture), but I love them all and am proudly vegetarian.

    A black and white cat is stretched out on the carpet, lying in the light and shadow cast by the sun through a window. There is also the leg of a wooden chair.

  • I love music

    My own personal hell is a long-haul flight without headphones. Or even a Tube journey.

    A close-up picture of a Bechstein piano keyboard, with some blurring in the back and foreground. It is a dark brown wood like walnut.
Image of a woman with shoulder-length hair smiling at the camera wearing a grey sweater.

I’d love to hear from you, whether you’re a founder or Chief of Staff. It would be my honour to work together!