IWD 2024: 10 leaders on the resources that help them tackle gender inequity

Gender disparities are as pressing an issue as ever, so inspired by the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day - Inspiring Inclusion - we wanted to discover how IAB UK members are paving the way for a more inclusive industry.

From understanding the systemic challenges at play to embracing personal superpowers, members of the IAB’s IDE group share the advice, initiative or resources that have really made a difference their career.

Empowered by connections

Adele Bridgeman (co-founder and resourcing director, Responsible Resourcing Agency): “Being part of diverse networks and communities committed to championing change, accelerating progress, and creating meaningful authentic interactions based on shared beliefs, has made a huge difference to me personally and professionally. 

"Communities such as MEFA (Media For All), IAB UK and Bloom Network means I am surrounded by talented entrepreneurial women who each have their own story and are unstoppable in their commitment and passion to enabling access and achieving total inclusion within the industry.”

Advocate for a more flexible workplace

Sarah Coften (head of innovation & digital strategy, Smithfield Agency): “The most transformative resource for promoting gender equity in my career has been talking and mentorship - both being a mentor and having one. The exchange of knowledge, experiences, and support fosters a culture of empowerment and growth. 

"Books like ‘Lean In’ by Sheryl Sandberg and podcasts like ‘The Broad Experience’ have provided invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of women in business. However, real change started when I started to open my mind and speak out more, advocating for and implementing flexible working practices that support a diverse workforce, leading to a more inclusive, innovative, and successful agency.”

Understand systemic challenges

Laura Smith-Collins (chief digital & data officer, Hearts & Science, and OMG Women’s Advisory Group co-chair): “The resources that have made the most difference to my perspective on gender equity and career development have been the ones that have opened my eyes to systemic challenges that exist and helped me realize that it’s not me that’s the problem. 

"‘The Authority Gap’ by Mary Ann Sieghart completely changed the way I thought about the workplace, and ‘Invisible Women’ by Caroline Criado Perez put everything in a new light – one that was frustrating but empowering at the same time.”

Seek wisdom from those you look up to

Alison Filkin (co-founder and chief people officer, Responsible Resourcing Agency): “The best advice I ever received in my career was to be brave enough seek the guidance and support of other women you look up to. I have been lucky enough to have amazing male bosses but it’s a number of women I observed and sought guidance from who showed me how to forge the path, navigate being a mother and progressing while doing the juggle. It has also made me want to pay it forward to other women, support, guide and cheer them on.”...

Continue reading in: The Drum