International Women’s Day 2021: Our Latest Updates!

The 8^th March is International Women’s Day, which is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. So, in this week’s blog, we wanted to bring you the latest in our team news and achievements (and yes, they’re all about women!)

Top 10 Female Retail Technology Leaders

To mark International Women’s Day 2021, Retail Technology Innovation Hub listed the top 10 women making positive impacts on the retail technology sector and we were very proud to see that Lisa Bowden, our Head of Business Development – Solutions, made the list.

Lisa said: “On International Women’s Day, I’m flattered to have been mentioned in RTIH’s Top 10 Female Retail Technology Leaders. For over 24 years, I have worked alongside, been motivated by and inspired via women in business (and some men, too!) Within Retail Assist, there are many strong women that I’m grateful and lucky to work with.”

Women in STEM and Working at Retail Assist

With females accounting for 51% of the UK population, only 35% of STEM students are female. However, at Retail Assist, 56% of our managerial roles are held by women, including representation on our board of directors, too.

We spoke Alex Broxson, Chief Marketing Officer, on her #IWD reflections.

Alex said: “I’m someone who believes in equality, be this for men and for women, so on International Women’s Day what are my reflections and what does it mean to me? Over the last year, I’ve never had to spin so many plates, be it working, homeschooling, keeping fit, sorting a new home – and dealing with a pandemic. I couldn’t have actually got through it all without the absolutely amazing support network I have, be it my husband, my mum, my friends, colleagues and teachers for remote learning. So, thank you!

“Whilst I’m currently the only female board member at Retail Assist, Retail Assist is a brilliant place for having lots of females in the workplace – which is particularly impressive when we are in a technology-led industry. There have been many times for me in my career where I have been the only female in the group (although some of my colleagues would say this is questionable!), but I can’t say it bothers me because I’ve worked with some great people. I’ve always had the respect and belief from those around me, so shout out to the men I get to work with and those who I have worked with in the past, too. 

“Most of all, I think it’s about having the right attitude, believing in yourself, being kind and, in true Spice Girls spirit, represent Girl Power – keep supporting those around you!”

CIM Marketing Excellence Awards

Last week, our all-female marketing team were also finalists at the CIM Marketing Excellence Awards for Marketing Team of the Year (Client Side), up against huge companies such as Birdseye and HelloFresh.

Alex added: “I get to work with an excellent all-women team in Marketing. I’m so proud of the achievements we have made and to be listed as a finalists for Marketing Team of the Year (Client Side) at the Chartered Institute of Marketing’s Marketing Excellence Awards, especially to be up against some major brands. Congratulations to HelloFresh who won the category, but what a shortlist to be up against! A great achievement for me and the team.”