International Women’s Day
1 day to go until #IWD2024! Today we are hearing from a member of our fantastic Professional Services Team.
Tell us about yourself and what you do at the University of Sheffield?
I have worked at the University for 16 years, across 3 faculties and 6 departments; before joining the School of Education as Departmental Manager I was Departmental Manager in the Department of Landscape Architecture and I spent 8 years in Interdisciplinary Engineering as Learning & Teaching Manager. I enjoy the variety of my role as Departmental Manager in the School of Education. I oversee our exceptional Professional Services Team, leading across a range of operations including finance, workload planning, education, estates and facilities, HR and staffing, and strategic planning.
What does ‘inspire inclusion’ mean to you as someone working at the University of Sheffield? How do you envision inclusive practices and environments within the UK universities that support the advancement and recognition of women in your field?
To me, “Inspire Inclusion” means creating a vibrant, dynamic environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to reach their potential.
Can you reflect on any experiences within professional services where inclusive practices have positively impacted your work environment or the experiences of your colleagues?
As a member of the Professional Services team, I really appreciate the support of academic staff — even just asking how I and the team are doing, or saying thank you for a job well done. Such a small thing makes such a big difference in feeling appreciated and like we matter.
How can professional services staff contribute to fostering inclusive practices within their departments and across the broader academic institution?
It is important to me to foster a respectful and welcoming environment. Personally, I try to lead by example and learn from my mistakes. I am proud of the environment we have built where people feel comfortable speaking up and raising any concerns they have in the knowledge that they will be listened to.
What support systems and resources should be available to professional services staff to address challenges related to gender equality and inclusion in the workplace?
I would like to see more celebration of Professional Services achievements — often what we do is overlooked by the University as a whole.
Tell us about yourself and what you do at the University of Sheffield?
Research Associate at the School of Education
What does ‘inspire inclusion’ mean to you as an academic at the University of Sheffield? How do you envision inclusive practices and environments within UK universities that support the advancement and recognition of women in your field?
For me “inspire inclusion” means promoting a diverse environment where everyone is respected and everyone has access to the same opportunities regardless of their characteristics, background or personal/professional circumstances.
In envisioning inclusive practices and environments within UK universities to support the advancement and recognition of women, I think equity plays an essential role in ensuring fairness and justice.
How can academic staff contribute to fostering inclusive practices within their departments and across the broader academic institution?
I think equity is essential for fostering inclusive practices. For example, academic staff should advocate for support for equitable allocation of resources and support for underrepresented groups. Also, by demonstrating respect for diversity and equity in their own actions and decision-making processes, academic staff can set a positive tone for the school and inspire others to follow their example.
