Date: 5 March 2026
This year, we are celebrating a special moment in our company’s history. For the first time, we have an all female Executive Team. It is a milestone we are proud of, and it shows what is possible when people support one another and make sure every voice is heard. International Women’s Day reminds us that progress does not happen by accident. It happens because people choose to uplift others, act as allies, and lead in ways that include rather than exclude.
When someone says “You can do this.”
Many of us can remember a time when someone believed in us before we believed in ourselves. This could be a manager who took the time to guide us, or a colleague who helped us grow. These moments build confidence and help people take their next steps. They can inspire new ambitions, open doors, and sometimes even change the course of someone’s life.
“Stepping into my new role as Head of Asset and Sustainability has been a proud moment - and not one I’ve reached alone. I’ve been fortunate to work with people who’ve encouraged my voice, challenged me constructively, and shown trust in my capability, even while I was still building confidence in it myself. In a traditionally male‑dominated industry, that matters. For me, support isn’t about being carried - it’s about being trusted, listened to, and given space to grow. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received and mindful of the responsibility to offer the same to others.”
- Jessica Kelsey, Head of Asset and Sustainability
Allyship: support that helps us all rise
Progression is a shared effort, and men have an important part to play in that journey. Allyship can be as simple as giving credit and challenging bias, and male colleagues can help by listening, learning, and speaking up when it matters.
These actions may seem small, but they create real change. They make our workplace fairer, safer, and more open for everyone.
“I believe that true progress comes when we work together to create opportunities for all. This is why I like to consider myself an ally to the female colleagues in my team. When there are successes and achievements within our team that are directly attributable to an individual, I will always aim to highlight that individual so that they receive the recognition they deserve, regardless of gender."
- Jeremy Oliver Jones, Customer Experience Manager
Growing talent without limits
One of our core beliefs is that talent has no gender. Everyone should have the chance to learn, grow, and lead. Our development opportunities and coaching management style help people build the skills they need at each stage of their career.
Our leadership team shows what can happen when opportunities are shared fairly and when people are encouraged to lead in their own way.
“After more than 20 years with Saxon Weald, I’ve stayed because I’ve felt heard, supported, and valued. The development opportunities I’ve been given have shaped my career and given me the confidence to grow into the leader I am today. As a woman, knowing my voice matters has made all the difference. This International Women’s Day, I’m proud to celebrate a workplace where equality is demonstrated, not just spoken about.”
- Rachel Richards, Assistant Director – Customer Experience
A culture of lifting each other up
Across Saxon Weald, people often talk about teamwork and support. We succeed together, not by competing for space, but by making room for others.
Inclusive leadership is not only about big decisions, but also about showing up in daily behaviours. From listening and sharing ideas, to welcoming alternative views and celebrating differences - when we lift others, we lift the whole organisation.
“As I look to the future, I’m committed to ensuring every voice is heard and respected. True progress comes when inclusivity is not a stand‑alone initiative, but a mindset embedded in every layer of our organisation. When opportunity is equal, we create workplaces where people feel genuinely empowered. Together, we can shape an organisation where everyone has the space, support, and confidence to thrive. That is my ambition for Saxon Weald.”
- Corinna Bishopp, Saxon Weald Chief Executive
Every International Women’s Day is a reminder of how far we’ve come. However, it also shows us how much further we can go when we actively help others to thrive. At Saxon Weald, we believe that inclusive leadership doesn’t belong to a select few; it’s a collective commitment. It shows up in the way we mentor, the way we listen, and the way we intentionally open doors for others.
