Influential Women Shaping the Future of Work – IWD 2024
This International Women’s Day, we’re reflecting on the remarkable achievements of women who are not only breaking barriers but reshaping the world of work for women who follow. There are a multitude of women whose persistence, vision and leadership are making a significant impact on the lives and careers of women across our nation. Today, we’re recognising and celebrating 10 of those influential women, whose dedication to empowerment, equality and progress truly aligns with the spirit of International Women’s Day.
Dame Helena Morrissey is a prominent financier and campaigner for gender diversity, having founded the 30% Club which advocates for better representation of women on corporate boards.
Emma Walmsley, CEO of GlaxoSmithKline, is one of the leading figures in the pharmaceutical industry. She advocates for gender equality in the corporate world and has implemented initiatives to promote diversity within GSK.
June Sarpong OBE is a television presenter and diversity advocate who actively promotes inclusivity and diversity in the media and creative industries. She is also a member of the UK government’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board.
Baroness Martha Lane Fox, Co-founder of Lastminute.com, is a successful entrepreneur and advocate for women in technology. She actively supports initiatives to bridge the gender gap in the digital sector.
Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock, space scientist and science communicator, inspires women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields. She actively engages in outreach to promote science education.
Dame Donna Kinnair is the Chief Executive and General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing. She is a strong activist for nurses and healthcare professionals, addressing issues related to the gender pay gap and women’s representation in healthcare leadership.
Dame Fiona Kendrick is a business leader who has championed diversity and gender equality in the corporate sector. As the former CEO of Nestlé UK and Ireland, she actively promoted women in leadership positions.
Laura Bates is the founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, working to expose and combat gender-based discrimination and harassment. Her advocacy raises awareness about the challenges women face in various aspects of daily life.
Baroness Valerie Amos is a trailblazer in politics and international relations. She has held various leadership positions, including serving as the first Black woman to lead a UK university (SOAS University of London). She continues to actively promote diversity and inclusion.
Dame Helena Kennedy is a prominent human rights lawyer and campaigner who has dedicated her career to promoting equality and justice. She actively advocates for women’s rights and gender equality in the legal system.
In today’s world, the battle for gender equality is far from over. However, there are women who are leading the way and making a significant impact in various professional fields. These women are facing challenges and overcoming them to create a brighter future for women in the workplace, coming from diverse backgrounds, including politics, science, business, and activism. Each one of them is playing a crucial role in paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
As a business that works with people to support them throughout their careers, from apprentice through to boardroom appointments, we recognise and champion inclusion, not just in the workplace but in the everyday. Today, we recognise the incredible women within our Group who are all key components in supporting our mission to Enable People to Be Their Best, whatever that means for the individual.
