Wednesday 8 March is International Women’s Day in 2023 and whilst we want to celebrate, we want to make sure we spotlight the work of some of the incredible women we work with and alongside.
So each day this week, we’ll be sharing the story of a different woman leading businesses and divisions. Today we’re talking to Vicky Yates, Head of Human Resources at Winbro Group Technologies, a global leader in sustainable manufacturing.
Who most inspired your career or mentored you to your level of success?
The fascinating thing about a career is the learning curve it takes you on. When I first started working in HR at TNT I had what I see now to be a fantastic female manager, however at the time I thought the level of detail she required verged on the pedantic, she would use ten words when one would have done. I remember asking her questions on how to deal with situations and listening to her talk it through for ten minutes and think, ‘is that a yes or no then?’ I’m sure she would be looking at me sideways and wondering if I was even listening!
Now I’m in that leadership position, I find myself doing exactly the same thing with my team; things must be done correctly and thoroughly and I’m sure I use ten words when one would have done! From this manager, I’ve taken the lessons of running a tight ship with high expectations for my team, department and myself.
Whilst this leader set me off on the right path, my ex-manager Mark who was at the time part of Winbro was the person who encouraged, believed in and supported me whilst giving me opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Throughout the lockdown periods, as I’m sure with many HR professionals, it was extremely busy and challenging. It was during this time that I had more exposure to the leadership team and was recognised for what I could bring to the table which in turn got me my own spot in the leadership team.
What policies or practices does your organisation have in place to allow women to thrive?
A huge part of my responsibility is the establishment of equity as well as equality. This means offering the same programs and opportunities to every person within our business – no matter of their gender, race, sexual orientation or abilities.
How do you try and pass down support and mentorship to women in your industry or organisation?
We run a mentorship program at Winbro, and whilst this is not specifically aimed at women, both mentees I mentor are women! I also mentor for the CIPD Leicestershire branch and again whilst this is not specifically for women, I am currently mentoring a woman!
