International Women’s Day

So, to mark this year’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, we’re celebrating the appointment of Saxon Weald’s first female Chief Executive, Corinna Bishopp, who will be joining us in May.

 

We asked Corinna...

 

Have you faced any barriers in your career because of your gender? If so, how did you overcome them?

I feel incredibly fortunate that in my career, I have worked in organisations that have largely already had strong female role models who have set the tone of equality in the organisation, or the organisation has been very forward thinking. I have experienced comments or closed-minded attitudes on a few occasions and bad behaviour but have either been comfortable or confident enough to tackle these head on - or find a way to prove them wrong!

 

Why is equality in the Workplace important to you?

I am really passionate about ensuring everyone is comfortable to speak up in an organisation and is listened to. Whoever we are and whatever our background and experience, everyone has a valuable contribution to make. Ensuring people feel safe, able to share their views and have a voice ensures a stronger organisation and better decision making. Our focus on equality, through our values and behaviours, enables this safe environment. It also ensures we get the best out of people and contributes to delivering a better service to our customers.

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Everyone has imposter syndrome, don’t listen to your own – it is not your friend. Believe in yourself.

 

Is there anyone who has particularly inspired you, either in your career or personal life?

I met a lady recently as part of a women in construction event who massively inspired me! She believed in herself and was driven with a strong clear vision and enormous amount of courage. She paid for her own qualifications to become a gas engineer, kept pushing to find someone to give her work experience despite multiple knockbacks, and now works as a supervisor in a large gas engineering company. She’s also bought her first house and is putting her kids through university. Her level of drive, resilience, persistence and strong belief really inspires me!

 

If you could have dinner with 3 inspirational women (alive or not) who would they be and why?

Helen Mirren - because I think she would be rebellious, fun and disrespectful.

Floella Benjamin - because I grew up with her as a strong role model and have watched her impressive career. It's only recently I learned about the incredible journey she has been on to get where she is.

Angela Merkel - as her intellect and political experience as a woman at the top in politics for so long is really impressive.

 

Not sure it would be a very good dinner party however as I don’t speak any German... and it’s a rather strange mix of people! If one of them couldn’t come, then my Gran would be a good stand in, as she was very outspoken and loved a giggle.