‘What’s Top Of Mind?’ Penny Hughes’ column

Let’s celebrate diversity  

For my column today, it’s time for something different. Let’s talk diversity. 

It is said that half the world gets the chance to vote in elections this year. Here in the UK, that vote was decisive, and whilst we will have many different perspectives on its outcome, I suggest we could share a nod to Rachel Reeves, the first ever female appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer.

It was Mark Carney, former Governor of The Bank of England, who endorsed Rachel as a “serious economist” who “understands the economics of work, of place, and of family”. Her qualifications and career path have been steady steps to this position.

If she can put into action a pro-business, pro-growth set of initiatives, and make the UK a more attractive and stable economy to invest in, to work in, to live in, whilst harnessing widespread support, then it is reason to be optimistic that the first ever female Chancellor could be a good one.

Aside from politics and economics, in this summer of sport, it's worth remembering that Debbie Jevans CBE and Sally Bolton OBE have been orchestrating Wimbledon in the rain! Again, as first ever female Chair and Chief Executive Officer respectively of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, they have gone about their work with expertise and passion - and without drama. 

Staying on the subject of sport, I had to laugh when the media commented that as Prince William watched England win against Switzerland in the Euro 2024 football tournament on penalties he 'even high fives with a woman in the crowd'. That woman was Debbie Hewitt, first female Chair of the Football Association - and now also the first ever female to be elected FIFA Vice-President. 

I have always believed change brings the opportunity for progress, and that diversity brings the opportunity to see and hear more perspectives in order to make better judgments for all. So I celebrate these signposts of more gender-diverse leadership because I have also always believed in the utter importance of leadership. 

Back here at Form3, our Strategic Advisory Board is full of diversity. As a group, we bring different and interesting experience and perspective to our dialogue. Helping Form3 to shape its ambition, to weigh up risk and reward, and to keep laser-focussed on operational delivery whilst always being on hand to lend a hand is peer collaboration at its best. I have no doubt that our diversity is the reason why our discussions are so engaging and constructive. Onwards!

Written by

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Penny Hughes CBE Board Member

Penny is a very experienced business leader. After a 10-year executive career with Coca-Cola, Penny has enjoyed a busy Non-Executive portfolio, working on more than 20 Boards covering consumer brands, mobile and media tech, banking, leisure and property. Brands include: The Body Shop, The Gap & Morrison’s Supermarkets, Aston Martin Lagonda; Vodafone, Trinity Mirror & Reuters, Skandinaviska Enkilda Banken & Royal Bank of Scotland; The Gym Group; iQ Student Accommodation & Riverstone retirement living.

Alongside her business career, Penny enjoys family life and various not-for-profit responsibilities that have included Trustee, British Museum and President, Advertising Association.