Inspiring Inclusion in the Workplace

I consider myself lucky to work in a female-led industry, with 64% of its employees being women. I work closely with our CEO, Emma Kane, an undeniably impressive and inspiring female leader. At SEC Newgate UK we have so many examples of brilliant women, balancing a successful career and personal life at the same time. We have some impressive tenure here, and you can see how women’s careers have grown. The stories of success, speak for themselves.

As a woman on the Senior Leadership Team, I can feel that what I bring to the table is valued. My experience and expertise feel appreciated. That’s by everyone, not just my female colleagues.

Reflecting on the last 19 years and my career against the rest of my life, I’m acutely aware that they have not aligned naturally to set me up for success. If anything, it’s probably the opposite. My career growth has been dependent on the support and decisions of others.  Without an inclusive approach to work, without flexibility, my career growth would have stopped years ago, and I would be on the broken rung that many women still find themselves on. 

I’m both passionate and strong-willed when it comes to inclusion. It’s something we talk a lot about, but we often misunderstand the true meaning and the scale. Inclusion is achieved by intentional action - it’s sometimes opting for difficulty over ease, and it sometimes upsets people who aren’t yet convinced of its value.