International Women's Day: Claire Sohal

Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day helps to create an even playing field amongst men and women. It helps to create a platform where women can share their stories and successes throughout their careers, as well as inspire other women to show them that they can progress in a top role which is often seen as a “manly” position.

What advice would you give to young women thinking about their careers?

Follow your heart and never doubt yourself. Also, you can achieve whatever you want. My career journey began as a Customer Incident Manager on the phones. I then worked my way up to Supervisor, then Team Manager, and now – my current role- Servicing and New Business Implementation Manager. I think if you can work hard enough, you can achieve anything.

Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?

Background, ethnicity, gender- none of this should matter in any aspect of life. In the workplace, if you want a more male-dominated role then go for it! Don’t be scared and believe in yourself. Each unique person brings their own unique skillset to the team.

What is the proudest moment in your career to date?

As a woman I think we’re awesome! We work, log off, cook, look after our children – we never stop. CET have always supported me in any way that they could. When I told the Team I was managing that I would be moving to another role within CET, the response I got from them made me realise what a positive impact I had had on them all. I got messages saying how I had inspired and helped each and every one of them. It was so heart-warming to see how I had helped them by being there for them no matter what and that I had pushed them to do great things in their career.