UK esports organisation Excel Esports has hired Abi Odell as its new people and culture manager.
In her role, Odell will be responsible for employees’ performance and development, as well as “creating the best operational processes” to fit Excel’s Power of Better programme. She will be focused on building a culture that represents the business and its employees, and formulating its equality, diversity and inclusion strategy in order to create a workplace where “everyone belongs, voices are heard and ideas can thrive”.
Odell has over 16 years of experience in HR, with knowledge and expertise in employee relations, including an Advanced Diploma in Employment Law, and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
She has also qualified as one of a few online anti-bullying ambassadors, via the Diana Award, for Anti-Bullying Pro, an online resource centre for young people, parents and educators to turn to for issues around bullying behaviour.
According to Excel, Odell joins after co-founder and former chief people officer Joel Holmes-Darby left the organisation last year. Since then, the business has recently undertaken a recruitment drive with new hires across all departments, which has seen the commercial team doubling in size.
Odell, an esports gamer herself, commented that her new role is “all-encompassing” and is “really looking forward” to making a difference at Excel.
“Esports is a growing industry with many companies being built from the ground up. When creating a solid foundation and strong culture, it is important to make sure the company operates with wellbeing at the heart of everything it does. Excel is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment and with my experience, I am passionate about making it the place where we grow together and utilise our power of better,” she added.