Leading Ladies in Somerset
Meet these inspirational women from our county who are leading the way in their chosen fields of expertise. International Women's day on March 8 focuses the conversation to celebrate women's achievements as we all move close to a gender equal world.
The Haskins Group was established in 1939 and I'm very proud, having been appointed the company's first female director in 2020. Last year it was a great privilege to welcome two new female directors, Alice Archer and Tiffany Wiltshire.
I believe women bring a different perspective to business, different strategies and priorities. I try to bring compassion and empathy to the workplace as well as trying to understand people's situations particularly regarding childcare and personal issues.
I strive to build a collaborative team where we all share the same values, working together to achieve our goals. Day to day, we see people as individuals, not just employees, taking an interest, talking to each as if he or she were a part of the Haskins family. Having Alice and Tiff join me as directors, empowers and drives our philosophy to ensure we grow and build the business for the next generation.
08081 682468 / info@haskinsfurniture.co.uk
I am the proud owner of The Trading Post Farm Shop in Somerset, a vibrant hub for fresh, local, and speciality foods.
As 2025 begins, I am looking forward to an exciting year - introducing fantastic new products, discovering exceptional suppliers, and, most importantly, continuing to serve the wonderful customers who make The Trading Post so special.
Supporting more than 80 local suppliers, I am passionate about showcasing the finest West Country produce. From freshly baked bread, cakes, and sweet treats to smoked fish, quality meats, and an impressive selection of beers, ciders, and spirits, The Trading Post is a celebration of local food. Customers can also enjoy handmade pies, pasties, and some of the best Scotch eggs you'll find anywhere.
My love for great food and drink is at the heart of The Trading Post, and I'm excited to see what 2025 has in store.
01460 241666 / kate@tradingpostfarmshop.co.uk
As head of marketing and business development at Bath College, I'm passionate about bridging the gap between education and industry. A key achievement has been strengthening partnerships with local employers to create meaningful opportunities for students, from apprenticeships to industry placements. Seeing the direct impact of these collaborations on young people's futures is incredibly rewarding.
One of the unique challenges has been shifting perceptions around skills education. Many businesses recognise the importance of developing talent but are unsure how to engage. My role is to make those connections easier - whether that's through tailored training, curriculum co-design, or helping employers tap into emerging talent.
Going into 2025, I'm excited to continue championing these partnerships, ensuring Somerset businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need. If we work together, we can make a real difference - not just for students, but for the future of our local economy.
info@bathcollege.ac.uk
I joined Haskins Group in 2018 as property manager, becoming estates director in March 2024. With Jade our MD I look after the group's property portfolio which includes a retail park and Grade II listed industrial site.
My career began in 1978 as a trainee typist, I worked my way up the ranks. I project managed my first office move in the early 1990s back when it really was a man's world, and I had very few female cohorts. Over 40 years health and safety has been the biggest and best change to the property/building landscape and we've worked very hard to embed it within every part of our business.
Attitudes have changed dramatically in the UK with women having far more opportunities for career choice and progression nowadays - not there yet though. Staff are our biggest asset, we have a great property team and do most building work in-house.
01749 340707 / info@jhhaskins.co.uk
My healthcare journey began 10 years ago as a health support worker, where I discovered my passion for helping others and learned the basics of care, including palliative care. I had previously spent eight years teaching in Romania, gaining a degree and honing my communication and patience - both invaluable skills in healthcare. Residential and domiciliary care work further enriched my understanding.
I progressed from care support worker to senior carer, care coordinator, and then care manager in domiciliary care, completing all NVQ levels, culminating in an NVQ Level 5 in Health and Social Care. Becoming deputy manager at Shaw Healthcare's Sycamore Lodge required a new perspective. I oversee a team and manage resources, but my foundation as a health support worker is essential. With my fantastic management team, we foster a culture of trust and hard work.
My journey, diverse experiences, hard work, continuous learning, and genuine passion, inspires me daily.
01275 858000 / Sycamore.Lodge@shaw.co.uk
I joined Haskins Furniture in the office more than 10 years ago and after working hard and advancing my knowledge with business courses, I have been promoted through the ranks and became sales and marketing director in February 2024.
With the experience I have gained I am flexible with different jobs within the business. No two days are the same but that's always exciting. I enjoy all aspects of marketing, watching the sales increase gives me great pride in my work and satisfaction knowing I am helping to grow the business. The opportunities I have been provided with have excelled my career and I am now in a role I never expected when I started my career.
As a woman in leadership in a predominantly male-dominated industry it does have its challenges, but working alongside Jade Farthing has been inspirational. This year, I am hoping to grow Haskins Furniture even further.
08081 682468 / info@haskinsfurniture.co.uk
I have been registrar at Kingswood School for one term and am relishing the variety that each day brings. I love that one day I will be showing families around the 120-acre site, the next I will be sending out offers to potential students, and the next I may be planning an open morning. My three children attended the school, so I feel at home discussing what the school offers to all children irrespective of academic, sporting, musical, artistic or confidence levels.
I am so passionate about what the school enables young people to achieve. I am, however, aware that not everyone has navigated the world of private education before, and I am committed to helping every prospective family feel at ease with a warm welcome, ensuring the admissions process is a positive, reassuring and seamless experience. I want every family to feel that I am looking after them personally.
kingswood.bath.sch.uk
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