At Poppies, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on an extraordinary woman whose strength, passion, and determination have inspired everyone around her.
Dianne Hunt, who began her journey with Poppies West Lancs, Southport and Formby as a part-time cleaner 23 years ago, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the 2025 NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF) Awards, in the Woman Franchise Employee of the Year category—an award that celebrates the achievements of exceptional women working within the franchising sector.
“I am truly honoured to be recognised as a finalist in the NatWest EWiF Awards,” said Dianne Hunt. “This recognition reflects the hard work and passion that I, along with my incredible team, have invested in Poppies Cleaning Service. It’s an absolute privilege to be included among such inspiring and successful women in the franchising industry.”
And inspiring is exactly what Dianne is.
She joined Poppies in July 2002, simply looking for part-time work. But it didn’t take long for her dedication and work ethic to shine through. She quickly progressed through the ranks—first as a Team Leader, then as an Admin Assistant, a role she held for 14 years.
“When I applied as a part-time cleaner, never did I imagine I would love my job so much that I would go on to build a career here.”
But Dianne’s professional journey became even more remarkable in the face of personal adversity. Thirteen years ago, she received the devastating news that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.
For many, this would have meant taking a step back—but not Dianne. She made the courageous decision to continue working throughout her treatment, showing up for her team and the clients she cared so deeply about.
“I didn’t let it stop me or let it get in the way of my job and what I loved doing! There were probably times I shouldn’t have come into work, but I didn’t want cancer to get in the way of the normal life I had.”
“It was a very challenging time for me as I was receiving chemotherapy as well as many other treatments,” Dianne recalls. “But I wanted to keep going. Work gave me a sense of normality and purpose.”
Through it all, Dianne maintained a mindset that became her source of strength:
“I tell myself I am a survivor of cancer, but I will not be a victim of cancer.”
Dianne battled breast cancer for ten years before finally receiving the all-clear—a moment of triumph that echoed the perseverance she had shown throughout her illness. Her strength and positivity left a lasting impact on everyone around her.
Her journey didn’t stop there. Dianne continued to grow within the company, taking on even greater responsibilities. While still supporting the West Lancs, Southport and Formby branch, she began working part-time for Poppies UK National Office in Franchise Support.
Then, in June 2023, she made the leap to a full-time role with Poppies UK—and has recently been promoted to Franchise Support Manager.
From cleaner to senior management, Dianne’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. She represents everything we value at Poppies: resilience, loyalty, professionalism, and heart.
We truly believe Dianne deserves this national recognition. Her story is not just one of career success, but one of incredible courage and inspiration.
Congratulations, Dianne—we’re so proud of you.
