She said she’d come for a little while
But part-time was not her style
She took one look at the task required
And in no time at all got Citywired

Before she knew it, the job had grown
She’d really made the role her own
If she’d planned to leave, then truth to tell
She shouldn’t have done the job so well

From production to printing to buying tea
It was all her responsibility
A lesser woman would have despaired
But her diligence showed how much she cared

And for her hard work, she got her reward
When appointed to the Citywire board
A sword whose edge was somewhat double
For it brought even more work for her trouble

If I said she was always happy and calm
I’d be doing the pursuit of truth some harm
Her displeasure could be pretty scary
I’d go as far as to say it was legendary

But she was not in this all for fun
She simply wanted to get the job done
No task for her was too big or too small
Except perhaps when it came to George Ball

It was interesting to watch how she’d forge
Her relationship with dear old George
Her chairman and her CEO
Knew just how far they could go

But they’d easier ignore the call of the clarion
Than at their peril, the call of Maion
The production team all walked her line
With Ali G she worked just fine
Though tough, she had the ability to nurture
Admin, journalist or researcher
While she’d put the whole team through its paces
With her there were no airs and graces

One minute concerned with insert folds
The next scrubbing ovens in her marigolds
Which is why she’ll be so sorely missed
I hope poor Richard’s got a list

Of the numerous roles he’ll have to fill
And how fast he’ll need to run just to stand still
But she leaves a Citywire in fine form
And goes with our blessing and wishes warm

May your next job bring you challenges new
If anyone out there can meet them it’s you
All the best Marion, we send our love
For Citywire you’ve been a cut above

In whatever you do, to whatever you aspire
Know you’ll always be welcome at Citywire.

© Joanne Ross - 7th March 2006