Happy International Women’s Day!  

A day that is monumental for all and a reminder for us to reflect on the value that women bring to the everyday world around us. Particularly for this blog, the world of business. 

As I reflect myself over the past year, I wanted to share an insight into why this day means more to me now than ever before. Yes, I am still a young woman in business but with the added responsibility of being a parent too. There are so many women in the UK who decide that it is time for their career to take a step back as they embark on motherhood and many who unfortunately don’t have the opportunity to remain in their chosen career, or business altogether, once they become a parent despite wishing too. Whilst every case is individual, and what might work for one may not work for another, motherhood has been described in many cases as the ‘kiss of death’ to your career (Joeli Brearley’s book goes into tons of detail!). 

For me, every woman has the ability to both thrive in their career and be a fantastic parent, so when my maternity leave was coming to an end, I was SO excited to start a new chapter as both ‘Mum’ and ‘Business Manager’! 

My Career 

I began my working career just weeks after graduating from Oxford Brookes University with a First Class Degree and joined Thompson & Terry Recruitment’s graduate programme.  

Fast forward *nearly* 5 years (wow time flies when you’re having fun!) I have experienced a successful graduate programme, 2 promotions, a global pandemic, maternity leave and navigating becoming a working mother all under the guidance of my manager, the one and only Ben! 

The Importance of Flexibility 

I am under no illusion that the opportunity for me to be the best parent I can be whilst still striving to better my career, has been all thanks to Ben. The importance of flexibility since returning from maternity leave has been paramount. Again, I understand not all businesses can be set up to offer this, but Thompson & Terry Recruitment have allowed me the freedom to work hard whilst I am at work and enjoy life with my daughter when I’m not in the office. 

Being a Mother in Business 

As a young mum navigating the world of business who has had the privilege to enjoy both my daughter and my career, my one hope is that women continue to break the stigma surrounding working mothers! We do have the opportunity to continue our careers in 2024; breaking down barriers in the workplace that so many women have suffered from it vital. 

I am so proud to be a young working mum and so proud of my career journey so far. 

Today I choose to celebrate being exactly that, a ‘Mother in Business’.