Inspiring Women in Leadership

Female representation in leadership roles is something that has been gradually increasing in recent years, however, there remains a considerable distance to cover. Currently, only 10% of Fortune 500 companies are headed up by female leaders, highlighting the persistent challenges women encounter in reaching positions of power. These challenges often stem from deeply engrained traditional stereotypes and biases that have hindered women’s transitions into leadership roles for many years. Although there have been many obstacles, a noteworthy shift is underway, which is marked by the growing recognition of the contributions that women bring to leadership positions. A study conducted by Bart Turczynski in 2021 found 70% of respondents found female managers effective overall. This emphasizes their competency as well as shining light on the way that teams value and appreciate the unique qualities that female leaders can offer.

The role of women in leadership extends beyond solely representation; it serves as a catalyst for change and diversity in corporate cultures. As more women climb up the career ladder and work in leadership roles, there is a clear impact on the workplace dynamics with workplaces becoming more inclusive environments.  In this blog, we will explore three examples of modern female leaders across diverse industries and examine how their influence is breaking barriers in their industries for future generations.

Women in Politics

Kamala Harris

In 2020 America saw Joe Biden win the Presidential Election against Donald Trump, a historic moment that saw Kamala Harris elected as Vice President. She is now the highest-ranking woman in Americas 244-year existence, with her successes standing as a source of inspiration that anything is possible. Kamala grew up in Oakland, California and her and her sibling were raised by a single mother for most of their childhood. She regularly breaks through glass ceilings throughout her career, being elected as the first African American and first woman to serve in California’s Attorney General in 2010. In 2016 she made history again by becoming the 2nd ever African American elected as a Senator for California. Her milestones in these leadership roles exemplify her ability to challenge norms and open the door for future generations.

Kamala is also a passionate advocate for women’s rights and opportunities, campaigning against the Supreme Courts decision to overturn federal abortion rights by meeting with lawmakers from over 18 states to review the issue. This demonstrates her commitment to addressing crucial issues that impact women’s lives by taking concrete steps to effect change and advance the rights of women.

 Her message to future generations highlights her gratitude and hard-working nature as she says ‘What’s important for my daughter to know is that…if you are fortunate to have an opportunity, it is your duty to make sure other people have those opportunities as well.’ Kamala Harris’ inspiring leadership is defined by not only her incredible list of accomplishments, but also by her trailblazing spirit. As the highest-ranking woman in American history, she serves as a beacon of hope for future female leaders.

Women in Business

Jemma Tadd

Jemma Tadd, Head of Fashion for eBay has been instrumental in working with the brand to become more sustainable. She has been recognised in British Vogue’s 25 Most Influential Women in 2022, where they highlight the impact she has had on reshaping the brand’s approach to sustainability and fashion partnerships. The decision to make eBay the official fashion partner for Love Island, one of the biggest shows on television, replacing fast-fashion brands with a focus on encouraging the purchase of pre-loved clothing was a inspiring move. By positioning eBay as a leader in promoting responsible consumer choices.

The introduction of the ‘Imperfects’ programme in 2022 highlights Tadd’s innovative approach to addressing environmental concerns whilst also catering to consumer needs. The ‘Imperfects’ programme offers high-street and designer clothing with minor defects at a discounted price, with eBay aiming to reduce waste and contribute to a more circular economy. Jemma said of the scheme ‘With growing financial pressures and the climate crisis continuing to be at the forefront of consumers minds, we’re proud to launch imperfects as another avenue to help keep fashion items out of landfill.’ It is clear within Jemma’s role she has brought positive changes within the company and positioned herself as an influential woman in leadership by shaping the narrative around sustainable fashion and responsible consumerism in the industry. Her strategic decisions and commitment to addressing pressing issues make her a noteworthy figure.

Women in the Media

Taylor Swift

Recently honoured as Times ‘Person of the Year’, Taylor Swift now joins the list of highly influential people that includes Barack Obama, Greta Thunberg, and Pope Francis to name only a few. Her remarkable success places her amongst the best-selling musicians of all time, boasting 11 Grammy Awards and recently embarking upon the highest-grossing tour in history ‘The Eras Tour.’ She continually sets new records as a woman in the media, with her accolades ever-growing.

Her journey is one marked by resilience and influence, as she continues to navigate the music industry as a female which has proven for years to be extremely challenging. The medias treatment of women is evidently different to their male counterparts, with females facing scrutiny over everything from their appearance, personal life and ability to maintain a long-lasting career. However, Taylor has proven through hard-work and resilience that she deserves her successes. This is highlighted through her global fanbase, which she leverages her reach to shed light on critical issues including encouraging participation in electoral voting, speaking out on the double-standards women face in the music industry and campaigning for change.

Taylor Swift transcends the boundaries of her musical career, using her influence to champion social and political causes whilst also breaking down gender barriers within the media. Her leadership serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of a woman to reshape industries and challenge patriarchal norms.

It is evident that women in leadership often use their voices to campaign for change. Through Taylor Swift’s impact on the music industry, to Kamala Harris’ incredible rise to the top of American Politics and Jemma Tadd’s impact on eBays sustainability mission they all show their courageous spirits and impactful leadership styles. The successes women have garnered in their fields and milestones that have been accomplished are all evidence of what happens when women have been accepted into the positions of powers. To find out more about our Women In Leadership Programme at Salford Professional Development click below.