Creating a new resource for senior women executives with HR responsibilities
The first meeting of a new ‘Women in Leadership’ network group was held in Witham last week. Formed in response to a suggestion to create a dedicated networking group specifically for women in the region, the brainchild of Susanna Frost, Chief Human Resources Officer, Fred. Olsen Limited, Louise Ragosta, HR Manager for EDF Energy and our own MD Lorraine Phair, the initiative got off to a flying start. The group differs from other women’s business networks in that it is tailored for those with HR responsibilities, whether HR professionals, senior executives or business owners, to provide a forum for knowledge exchange and sharing of best practice in managing people.
Message of support from Priti Patel MP
We were delighted to receive a message of support from Witham MP Priti Patel whose diary sadly did not permit her to attend. “Congratulations on establishing this new group. Essex and the wider region benefit greatly from the talents and contributions of our business women, and to share knowledge and experience in this way is always very valuable. I wish you every success as you encourage each other.”
We were delighted with the success of the first meeting. Particular thanks go to Louise Ragosta, and to Susanna Frost, who facilitated on the day. Lorraine said, “The initial idea came directly from these HR experts who represent some of our largest clients who are major employers both in our region and more widely across the UK. We recognise that building teams and managing people successfully is one of the greatest challenges in every business, so we were delighted to help facilitate the start of this new initiative.
“HR professionals now also have to ensure that remote working employees are able to integrate with the team and remain engaged as they fulfil their roles. Meeting with fellow professionals from different industries will provide a forum and a practical support as they define and formulate the HR policies and systems of the future. As a recruitment specialist I’m well aware that the workplace has changed dramatically in the past two years and I want to listen closely to what our members now need and the challenges they are facing.”
The next meeting has already been scheduled for late November and will be hosted by Susanna Frost at Fred. Olsen’s offices in Ipswich.