Building better businesses through representation

In all functions of our industry—across sales, marketing, supply chain, ops, and finance—there is certainly no shortage of women. Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with, and forging connections with, many of them - but something strange happened when I reached director level. As I looked around, I often found myself thinking that there were very few of us.

Overall representation in the industry isn’t an issue, but the higher you climb the fewer women you’ll see. Almost 40% of UK FTSE 100 board positions are held by women, placing the UK second in international rankings for board representation, so why isn’t this trickling into our industry quite as quickly?

As my 18-year-old daughter prepares to head to university, and begin charting her own path, I have found that my role has changed from ‘mother’ to ‘mentor.’ She does not need me to remind her to do her schoolwork or micromanage her time. What she needs most is my advice, my support, and my encouragement as she carves out her place in this world.

I realise that we need to take a similar approach in our industry. There is so much young, bright, female talent coming into the business, bringing new ideas that have the potential for positive change and driving growth - but for that to happen, we need to create more opportunities and working environments where those insights can be shared. people to make their valuable voices be heard. We must create cultures of communication and collaboration that empower every member of the organisation. We need to encourage female teammates to share their ideas - and take time to listen to them.

I have spoken to many women in the industry at various events about their challenges and, most often, there is still mention of feeling unheard or unsure. Many women in office products still struggle to speak up or voice their opinions, wondering if their managers or their wider team will listen, meaning that we are not realising their full potential and adding maximum value to the business.

What do we do about it? It falls to us, female leaders at senior levels, to empower our

To the women in leadership out there - look around. Be a mentor or a listening ear and help others climb. Create an environment of encouragement and support that helps others reach their full potential. Grab their hands and lift them up because the industry and your businesses will be much better for it.

At ACCO Brands we are about to launch a global women’s network, which I have been involved in since it began a year ago. Its mission is to empower, develop and support the continued success of our female employees. I am very much looking forward to putting into practice what I preach, and supporting my female ACCO colleagues on their journey in the company.