Catalyst celebrates International Women’s Day
In celebration of International Women’s Day, some of our amazing Catalyst ladies have shared their thoughts about women in business.
Anna Bennett, Marketing Director says:
“What’s that saying… “Strong women, may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them”? I’ll add to that, “May we work with them?”
I’m passionate that Catalyst offers a working environment that supports women; a space in which women can feel safe, seen, heard, and can thrive. There is something incredibly empowering about a workplace where women enable and celebrate each other’s successes. I have seen firsthand how this dynamic increases creativity, productivity and, ultimately, profitability.
Having benefitted from some trailblazing female mentors in my earlier career years, I find it such a privilege to mentor and coach the next generation of female leaders. Observing my mentees find their voice, develop their capabilities, truly believe in themselves, and flourish in their careers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. And, for me, it’s not just about ‘passing it on’; it’s about making sure the career path is wider and brighter for everyone following behind. Much has changed over the last 30 years, but there is still so much more that can be done.
I’m proud to say that Catalyst has strong female representation on our Exec Committee and Management Teams. We offer fair pay (and this is monitored). And we regularly review our policies to ensure they support women in the workplace. In fact, for Fiona, my HR Manager, and me, supporting women at work is always on our agenda.
And I am very fortunate to work alongside some incredible women who advocate, champion, and lift each other. A bunch of brilliantly smart, funny, caring women. It’s great to celebrate International Women’s Day in such good company: Amy, Becky, Catherine, Charlotte, Clare, Ev, Fiona, Kate, Gemma, and Jaimee.”
Fiona Collins, HR and Office Manager says:
“Catalyst recognises that creating truly safe and supportive workspaces for women is an ongoing commitment and one we are continually striving to strengthen. Women’s health is widely misunderstood and underrepresented, which is why we want to foster an environment where conversations around periods, menopause and wider women’s health are normalised, understood and supported, not a topic to shy away from in the workplace.
By encouraging openness and leading with support and empathy, we aim to ensure everyone feels comfortable on a daily basis coming to work. As part of this commitment, we have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and a dedicated menopause policy to provide practical support, and we are looking at strengthening this in providing period products into the women’s toilets in our office. We know that building a genuinely inclusive culture is about more than just policies; it’s about everyday understanding and open conversations to remove the stigmas associated with women’s health, but it’s a step in the right direction.”
Gemma Roberts, Business Development Manager – North says:
“When I started my career, senior leadership in finance looked very different. Today, it’s inspiring to see more women in senior and executive roles shaping strategy, influencing direction, and leading with impact.
I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible women colleagues, leaders, and mentors each bringing different strengths and leadership styles, many have balanced demanding careers while managing families or caring for older or unwell parents.
I’m proud to work for an organisation where women are visible at ExCo level, leading thoughtfully and openly. It’s powerful to see young women coming through the ranks with confidence showing up as their true selves, rather than who they think the industry expects them to be. That authenticity is changing how we perceive women for the better.
It’s encouraging to see growing awareness around perimenopause and menopause too. It can be an isolating and challenging time, so having supportive colleagues and a safe environment to talk can make all the difference.”
Evelyn Thornton, Financial Controller says:
“In today’s fast-paced corporate landscape, I believe that reaching one’s professional potential should never come at the cost of being a present parent. By integrating a full-time career with an active role in my children’s lives, from being there for milestones to supporting their extracurricular growth, I aim to be a visible role model for my peers and my family alike.
For me, professional flexibility is the key to this balance; it allows me to bring my best, most focused self to my work while ensuring my children have a present, engaged mother. I am proof that with the right culture, ambition and presence can thrive together. I am incredibly proud that the culture we have at Catalyst supports this vision, bolstered by a strong female presence in our ExCo team who consistently champion and support staff with families. Their leadership reinforces my belief that a successful career and a fulfilling family life are not just possible, but mutually beneficial.”
Have a Project in Mind?
Amy Rickman, Head of Servicing says:
“We can’t change the world overnight, but we can make small changes to ensure there are safe spaces and equal opportunities for women. My mum worked in a senior leadership role; she had fewer opportunities and had to work harder than some of her male colleagues to achieve her successes – all while raising me.
Being a woman within ExCo; I am passionate about making room for the next generation of women like my Mum and ensuring they have even more opportunities than I have been given.
Anna has been a great role model and mentor within Catalyst; I want to do the same for others.”
Catherine Balsom, Sales Administrator says:
“I have been at Catalyst for a few months now and it has been such a welcoming environment. It’s great to see so many female role models in all areas of the business including senior management. I’m very happy to be able to work four days a week which really helps with my family/work life balance. I feel that Catalyst provides the right platform for all to progress regardless of gender, age etc. It’s wonderful that International Women’s Day is being celebrated at Catalyst and reflects the inclusive culture of the company.”
Kate Haas, Marketing Manager says:
“Reflecting on my experiences in the workplace over the years, it’s great to see how things are changing for the better. Women’s voices are being heard and valued so much more, and it’s now less unusual to see strong female representation within the leadership teams.
No matter what your gender, I believe everyone performs their best at work when they feel supported, heard and valued. It’s often easy to see others’ strengths, but not always so easy to see our own. So having colleagues that champion and celebrate you within your role gives you the best platform to succeed and be happy in the workplace.
Since I started at Catalyst, I have been lucky enough to work alongside Anna, who has been not only taught me a lot, but helped me to see my strengths, my potential and boosted my self-confidence. She has also shown me how to be an exceptional leader, manager and to be well respected in the workplace. Catalyst has many other brilliant women who are excelling in their roles too, and it is refreshing to work somewhere that equally values both their male and female employees.”
