Finding Your Own Path – Career Lessons from Clemency Lyon
Careers rarely follow a straight line. Instead, they are shaped by opportunities, challenges, and unexpected turns. Clemency Lyon, Director of Research, Policy, and Communications at UK Active, has built a career that reflects this reality. From tennis coaching and financial services to parliamentary roles and fitness industry leadership, her journey is proof that adaptability, learning, and taking chances can open incredible doors.
On the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest, Clemency Lyon shared her career journey, lessons on resilience, and advice for job seekers. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to pivot, or aiming for leadership, her insights offer invaluable guidance.
1. Careers Are Rarely Linear – And That’s a Good Thing
Clemency Lyon didn’t start with a clear career path—instead, she embraced new opportunities as they came.
📌 She started teaching tennis as a teenager, before studying French, Spanish, and European Studies at university.
📌 A grad scheme in financial services led to an unexpected political career after one of her former managers became an MP.
📌 After several years in parliamentary roles and consultancy, she moved into UK Active, bringing her public affairs and policy expertise into the fitness industry.
💡 “You don’t have to have everything mapped out—sometimes, the right path finds you.”
For job seekers, this means: Stay open to new directions—your dream job might be in an industry you haven’t considered yet.
2. Say Yes to New Experiences – Even If You Feel Unprepared
Some of the best career moves come from stepping outside your comfort zone—something Clemency Lyon knows first-hand.
📌 When she finished her grad scheme, she took a two-year career break to travel and qualify as a snowboard instructor.
📌 While working in parliament, she was asked to become a Special Adviser to a Secretary of State—a huge role with high stakes and intense pressure.
📌 Even when her role ended abruptly due to a government collapse, she used the setback as an opportunity to pivot into a role at UK Active.
💡 “Every experience teaches you something. Even when things don’t go to plan, you gain skills that will help you later.”
For job seekers, this means: Don’t be afraid to take risks—you’ll gain skills and confidence along the way.
3. Relationships Matter – Build and Maintain Your Network
Throughout her career, Clemency Lyon has benefited from strong professional relationships.
📌 Her first internship at Lloyds Bank came through a family connection, highlighting the importance of using your network.
📌 The MP who recruited her into politics was someone she had worked with years earlier—proving that first impressions can create future opportunities.
📌 Even her move into UK Active came through a trusted introduction.
💡 “Many of my best opportunities came from relationships I had built years before. Keep in touch with people—you never know when your paths will cross again.”
For job seekers, this means: Networking isn’t just about meeting new people—it’s about maintaining relationships with those who already know and trust you.
4. Learn from Every Role – Even the Tough Ones
Not every job will be perfect—but even difficult roles can teach valuable lessons.
📌 Clemency Lyon worked in parliament during Brexit and the pandemic, facing intense pressure, long hours, and high public scrutiny.
📌 While it was challenging, it taught her resilience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication.
📌 She also spent time in a start-up, learning how to build something from the ground up—an experience that gave her problem-solving skills she still uses today.
💡 “Even in the toughest jobs, you gain something. You learn what you enjoy, what you don’t, and what you’re capable of.”
For job seekers, this means: If a job isn’t perfect, focus on what you can learn from it—those skills will help in your next role.
5. Be Honest About What You Don’t Know – And Then Learn It
When Clemency Lyon started in government relations, she knew very little about politics—but instead of pretending, she was upfront about it.
📌 She admitted to her new manager that she didn’t know the difference between parliament and government.
📌 Instead of being dismissed, she was given the right training to fill the gaps in her knowledge.
📌 That honesty and willingness to learn quickly helped her succeed in a highly complex industry.
💡 “If you don’t know something, be upfront and take action to learn it. People respect honesty and initiative.”
For job seekers, this means: You don’t need to know everything—just be willing to learn and adapt.
6. Be Proactive – Career Growth Doesn’t Just Happen
One of the biggest lessons Clemency Lyon learned? You have to take charge of your own career.
📌 Instead of waiting for promotions, she made sure she was noticed for her hard work.
📌 When she saw a new opportunity that aligned with her skills, she put herself forward rather than waiting to be approached.
📌 Even when faced with setbacks, she actively looked for new paths, rather than waiting for something to come along.
💡 “You have to create your own opportunities. If you don’t put yourself forward, someone else will.”
For job seekers, this means: Don’t just wait for promotions or job offers—take action to move your career forward.
7. Job Interviews Are About More Than Just Skills
After years of interviewing and being interviewed, Clemency Lyon shared key insights on what makes a great candidate:
📌 Start strong. The first few minutes set the tone—come in with energy, confidence, and enthusiasm.
📌 Do your research. Nothing is worse than a candidate who hasn’t looked into the company.
📌 Be concise but engaging. Don’t just list experiences—tell your story and show your personality.
📌 Always ask a question. Show curiosity and engagement—it leaves a strong final impression.
💡 “Interviews are a chance to tell your story—make it memorable.”
For job seekers, this means: Treat every interview as an opportunity to showcase both your skills and who you are as a person.
Final Thought: Be Open, Take Risks, and Keep Learning
If there’s one lesson to take from Clemency Lyon’s career, it’s this:
✅ Be open to unexpected opportunities—your ideal career path might surprise you.
✅ Build strong relationships—your network can create incredible opportunities.
✅ Take control of your career—don’t wait for things to happen, make them happen.
✅ Keep learning—honest self-reflection and skill development will set you apart.
💡 “The best careers aren’t always planned. Stay open, keep learning, and take the next step—even if it’s uncertain.”
Want More Career Insights? Listen to the Full Episode! 🎧
This episode of the Love Your Career Podcast is packed with even more wisdom from Clemency Lyon.
📢 Tune in to hear her full story and expert insights!
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