What does International Womens Day mean to Emma Mills, Head of Compliance?

How would you describe the workplace now in comparison to when you began your career?

My view is the workplace now is far more flexible and diverse than it ever was at the start of my career. Gone are the days where women were less favourable for higher positions, although it is still often the case that women, in particular those who are younger, have more to prove that they are capable.

Those starting families are supported with their return to their careers, which is refreshing compared to the same situation a few decades ago. There is far more openness today, communication lines are more relaxed and this in turn allows for transparency and clear conversations. At the inception of my career, this certainly wasn’t the case!

In terms of office working environments, regulations are tighter to ensure that workers health is at the forefront. The workplace is now a far more welcoming place than it was.

What advice would you give to young women who are about to start their career journey?

Be confident in who you are, strive to be the very best you can be and drive your career forward with gusto! What you don’t know – learn and never say no to development.

You get out of your career whatever effort you’re willing to put in. There are so many great opportunities out there, no-one needs to feel stuck career wise, the choices are there if you have the inclination to get yourself out there.

What would you hope for the next generation of women in the workplace, and more specifically the property management sector, in the next decade?

What I’d hope for is for women to continue to be accepted as wholly viable for all manner of roles. In the Property Management sector, the opportunities for women are vast. The training and development paths available provide fantastic career opportunities.

The sector continues to experience fabulous growth, even during the tougher economic climate. Women have so much to offer and I think for the continuance of women’s placement in the sector, great things are on the horizon.

What does International Womens Day mean to you?

International Womens Day is a celebration and nod to all of the wonderful women out there – women from all backgrounds and all walks of life.

Women whom make some amazing contributions to this world – not just in the workplace. A day to remind us of all that we have done and how much more is still to come. It can honour the contributions women have made and show those of the younger generations those great examples.

I personally don’t advocate ‘Role Models’ but there so many fabulous women from which to obtain inspiration; from family members to work colleagues; from monarchy to those achieving greatness in technology and scientific fields. The IWD values are justice, dignity, hope, equality, collaboration, tenacity, appreciation, respect, empathy, forgiveness. We women aspire for all of these, we are capable of so much career wise.

We deserve to be cherised for who we are and what we stand for. I think there are many ‘Days’ but to hold a celebration for women.. top tier!

Which female figures inspire you and why?

1. Her majesty the late Queen Elizabeth II – holding the accomplishment of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. Taking the throne from a very young age and carrying herself in such a manner for over seven decades, she was steadfast, stoic and hardworking. In my opinion a great lady of her time and who will be remembered as a lady who devoted her whole life to duty and service.

2. My own mother – no longer with us but the lady who instilled her qualities of warmth, honesty and sincerity and hardwork. Never let those struggling feel alone and if you can help someone along the way then do so. A lady of great strength and value.