At iCoupon, we pride ourselves on the diverse and talented individuals who drive our success. Today, we shine the spotlight on Madeline Hafner, our Project Team Manager, to learn more about her journey and interests.
Madeline is a dynamic and dedicated Project Team Manager known for her organisational skills, commitment to her projects and her cheery nature. Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA, she spent 5 years teaching in Spain before heading to the UK. Madeline completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Nebraska and earned her Master’s degree from the University of Birmingham in the UK.
As an American who has mastered both English and Spanish, Madeline effortlessly bridges cultural and linguistic gaps at iCoupon.
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got started in your career?
“At the beginning of my career I worked as an English teacher in Spain for five years – this sparked my love of languages and working in a multicultural environment.”
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
“If you look back on the past 3, 6, 12months and compare them to what you know in the role now, you’ll be surprised at how much you are capable of. Now just think what you’ll achieve in the next 3, 6, 12 months.”
What do you enjoy most about your job?
“No two days are the same – each day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn something new!”
How have your colleagues supported you in your role?
“Although the days can be fast-paced, I appreciate that my colleagues are always up for a chat and a laugh.”
Can you share a memorable moment with your team?
“Shortly after joining the company in 2021 I attended an awards night where iCoupon won an award for best innovation in retail technology – the whole team was present and it felt like I had become a part of something very special.”
If you could switch jobs with anyone in the company for a day, who would it be and why?
“If in this scenario I could understand code, I’d love to switch jobs with the development team, I’ve always imagined coding to be like learning a second language and I’d be interested to see what happens behind the scenes.”
What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
“I love cooking classes, listening to audiobooks, and leisurely bike rides when the weather permits!”
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
“I am a singer – just largely out of practice! I studied classical music at university for one year and sang opera for a very short time.”
Do you have a favourite quote or motto that you live by?
“‘A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for’.”
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
“I’d like to have dinner with Lucille Ball, I just know she’d have a million fascinating stories of her time working on her show I Love Lucy. I would also say Dolly Parton for the same reason, I imagine she has some great stories too!”
What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
“My favourite movie since I was 13 is Pride and Prejudice (specifically the 2005 Keira Knightly version) although I think the humour in the movie was definitely lost on me then!”
Big thanks to Madeline for letting us delve into her work and home life for a little glimpse of what makes our fabulous Project Team Manager. Keep an eye out for more employee spotlights to get to know our team a little bit better!
Keep an eye out for a glimpse into more of our team members, visit our team page – https://www.icoupon.com/about/our-team/
