As of the end of September 2009, the UK retail industry employed over 2.8 million people, which equates to 11 per cent of the total UK workforce. Although 60 per cent of employees in retail are women, there are still very few females in senior management positions, with less than give per cent female CEOs in retail companies and only eight per cent of purchasing decisions within these organisations being made by women.
As this situation has not changed over the past decade, everywoman – the UK’s largest independent network for women in business – is addressing the urgent need for action to rebalance this situation by identifying positive role models to inspire other women.
everywoman is now welcoming entries from women in retail for their third Specsavers everywoman in Retail Awards. With the UK coming out of recession, this is an excellent opportunity to shine the spotlight on the women who have successfully steered their companies through these tougher times.
The Specsavers everywoman Awards were established to help readdress the gender balance in management roles within retail by highlighting inspirational role models and their various accomplishments, many of which would otherwise go unnoticed. These are encapsulated in the differing awards categories which include; ‘Star of the Future’ for a young woman striding ahead in her career, ‘Innovator of the Year’, ‘Inspiration of the Year’ and ‘Leader of the Year’; an open award to any woman heading a team, department or business successfully. In addition the overall ‘Specsavers Woman of the Year award’ will be presented to an inspirational female whose vision and success is exemplar to all within the industry.
Maxine Benson, Co-founder and Director of everywoman says: ‘Every year these awards uncover stories of inspirational women who are great role models for the industry. They are women whose success will inspire and motivate more young women to consider a career in the sector. These talented women are working in every organization, and we want to encourage these women and employers to enter this year to receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work and achievements.’
The panel of judges involves a select group of women who are dedicated to the cause of increasing the number of women working in management roles within retail. Judges include Rose Foster, past CEO of Monsoon Accessorize & La Senza; Kim Morton, Chair of the Fashion Retail Academy; Carrie Rubin, Director of Pentland Group; Sharon O’Connor, Managing Director of Oasis Group PLC and Julia Reynolds, CEO of Figleaves.
Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers says: ‘There are some excellent opportunities for women in the retail industry. Although there are not as many women in senior positions as there should be, there are many good prospects. At Specsavers, many of our stores are owned by female opticians who recognise the importance of excellent customer service and high retail standards.’
The awards are open for entry until 31 May. The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony at The Savoy, on 14 September. For table bookings and ticket enquiries, please contact everywoman directly on 0870 746 1800 or for further information visit www.everywoman.com.
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