In a pre-Christmas round of company events 9’s brand ambassadors mingled with staff at the comms provider's Gloucestershire HQ and entertained a selection of top partners at The Gherkin in London.
Rio Olympics hockey gold medallist Maddie Hinch (pictured) was a lunch guest of 9’s marketing team in Gloucestershire during early December.
The group were joined by two other staff members who had won a competition to meet Maddie and ask questions about her sporting career. Hinch also ran two similar sessions for staff members.
"It was fascinating to hear Maddie describe her training regime and the full story of the epic shoot our victory over the Netherlands in Rio, revealing that diligent preparation really does pay off," stated Marketing Director Mark Saunders.
"Maddie's story resonates well with our own Free to Perform mantra. She is truly inspirational for anyone in business, or sport.
"Maddie also recently spent the afternoon with us, watching another one of our sporting partnerships, London Irish. Maddie was accompanied by Brendan Creed, English international field hockey player to join us and 9’s hockey playing Partner, Lee Waller."
To kick off the Christmas celebrations early 9 Group was joined by Olympic gymnasts Becky and Ellie Downie at The Gherkin alongside nine partners for a festive lunch.
"Following their recent incredible achievements at the World Championships in Stuttgart, the remarkable Downies shared their journey with the room – the highs, the lows and of course plans for the upcoming 2020 Olympics," added Saunders.
"Offering an intimate dining experience with an insight into the lives of elite athletes, their determination, drive and appetite to succeed really surpassed the expectations of an ordinary Christmas lunch in London."
MD of Partners Adam Cathcart added: “During the busy period leading up to the Christmas break it was also perfect for everyone to let their hair down and have a bit of fun with a few of our partners.”