To conclude our International Women’s Day 2025 series of features we talk to some of the incredible women working across Brackmills Industrial Estate and ask the question ‘If you could swap roles with any other woman in business for a day, who would it be and why?’
Gemma Osborne, Safety, Health and Environmental Technician, igus UK
“Grace Beverly, she runs several businesses and has her own podcast. I love how she portrays herself and speaks with confidence. Her aim is to inspire women around the world, addressing topics such the menopause, parenting, relationships and staying disciplined. So, despite her busy life I would swap with her as I believe it would open my eyes as to what it really takes to be successful in business.”
Holly Philip, Operations Manager, Delivery – Northampton, John Lewis & Partners
“Sara Davies. Although I'm not a "crafter," her success from such a young age is impressive. Taking an idea and having the ability to make it into something real takes a certain something! I particularly admire how down-to-earth she is and how she champions others to achieve success - from her 6 Minute Entrepreneur content to her role in Avon to help more women build and run their own businesses, alongside supporting the charity Smart Works. These align with my own personal values, so I'd love to see how she keeps up the momentum and juggles it all with two young boys like myself.”
Marzena Spiewak, Branch Manager, Ziegler UK Limited
“Ingrid Newkirk who is the founder and president of PETA, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. She has led the organization for decades in its advocacy for animal rights. I admire her for her actions and bravery to help the voiceless. Being vegan for years now I would like to have an opportunity to see what more can be done to promote animal welfare and how we can influence others to change their attitude, especially towards farm animals.”
Rebekah Broady, Marketing Executive, Rushlift
“Olivia Hanlon, the Founder and CEO of Girls in Marketing. Not only has she built an incredible business and earned her spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30, but she has also fostered a thriving community that supports and empowers marketers at every stage of their career.
Marketing can often be a solo effort, with many professionals working as a one-person team. Girls in Marketing provides a space where marketers can connect, share knowledge and feel part of something bigger. Alongside offering accessible learning resources and webinars, the community is all about uplifting and supporting each other.
Stepping into Olivia’s role for a day would be an amazing opportunity to help upskill other marketers, collaborate with female marketing leaders to develop new learning resources, and contribute to the growth and success of professionals in the industry.”
Bianca Cruceru, Business Development Manager UK, Active Ants
“I’d love to swap roles with Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx. Her journey is a testament to resilience, belief, and the power of hard work. She started with a simple idea, worked tirelessly to bring it to life, and faced countless rejections along the way. But she never gave up. She truly believed in her product and invested everything she had into making it a success. What’s most inspiring is that she became a self-made billionaire at the young age of 41—proving that it’s never too late to make a change or achieve your dreams.
Sara’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t always instant. It’s built through persistence, passion, and an unwavering belief in yourself. I admire how she turned obstacles into opportunities, trusted her instincts, and created a brand that not only revolutionised an industry but also empowered women. If I could step into her shoes for a day, I’d love to see firsthand how she makes strategic decisions, navigates challenges, and continues to innovate while staying true to her vision, true to herself.”
About International Women's Day (IWD)
International Women's Day (IWD) is marked on 8th March each year. It was first recognised by the United Nations in 1977, though it has earlier roots in the labour movements of the early 20th century.
According to data from the World Economic Forum, it will take until the year 2158 to reach full gender parity. This is roughly five generations from now.
The theme for this year’s #IWD2025 is #AccelerateAction, with calls for ‘increased momentum and urgency to address the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres’. Find out more here: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Theme