Objective of the group
The objective for each group is for women, in any leadership role, to feel supported to excel and progress in their leadership development.
Although some challenges that women face may also be faced by other genders, the fact that the McKinsey Report shows that men are promoted or hired based on their potential, yet women are promoted or hired based on their track record and are statistically given less management support or access to senior leadership, means that women are facing challenges which can be specific to their gender.
When you are facing a challenge, it is good to know that you are not on your own. With the group behind you to bolster your confidence, you can tackle issues with a great feeling of empowerment.
Group Discussions
The subject matter is set by the participants, with added stimulus from the Group manager and Facilitator fuelling the session. The group members can discuss their challenges on gender specific issues, or general challenges which the proposer/s feel more comfortable discussing with other women.
This is a safe space to discuss any challenge that you may be facing.
Some topics discussed at previous sessions:
- Sharing work related challenges and experiences
- Importance of clear communication
- Managing team culture and efficiency
- Hiring decisions
- How to tackle fairly casual sexism
- Imposter syndrome – am I here because I am worth it or to tick the diversity box?
- Working from home – how do I disengage?
- Juggling work and home life
- Menopause
- Gender split/pay
- Diverse workforces
Group workshops
Ranging from interactive workshops with expert speakers on topics born from the group discussion meetings, to talks and Q&A sessions from successful women leaders, these sessions are designed to promote discussion, increase empowerment and provide you with tangible takeaways.
Member Testimonial
Jo Harris
HR & Office Manager - AT&C Professional Systems Ltd
"I have been privileged to have been involved with MD2MD this year, especially the Women in Leadership Group. Within the confines of a safe space, you will find an array of experienced, honest and dedicated women. The peer challenges have been enabled me to gain clarity and understanding of both myself and my role. Jo and Emma facilitate the sessions to exceptional standards and should be proud of the group they have created. I am very much looking forward to what 2024 will bring. "View full case study
Jakki Dean
Internal Sales and Admin Manager - Indium
"I’d like to share my appreciation for the Women in Leadership program run by MD2MD. Joining the group has been a transformative experience that I am grateful for. The open and non-judgmental atmosphere of our meetings has allowed me (and others) to share thoughts and challenges in a safe space. The wisdom and empathy from the group has helped me navigate through difficult situations. I’ve gained valuable insights and learned from other’s experiences. Women in Leadership is a group committed to personal growth and empowerment. The discussions explore subjects and experiences that are important to the members and allow help, guidance and coaching from others to find a path forward for that situation. Having the support and encouragement from others in the group help me to handle situations that may have been more challenging if facing them alone. In summary Women in Leadership is a group of likeminded women who support each other. To any woman seeking connection, growth, and a supportive community, I would recommend joining these groups. I always look forward to participating in our next meeting. "View full case study
Testimonial video covering Women in Leadership
What does Women in Leadership include?
All group discussions are held online on Tuesdays from 9.30-11am.
January 7th - Group Discussion
Discuss current challenges and share key insights and advice – feel empowered and empower others.
February 4th - Workshop
The Mind Advantage: Unlocking Your Brain’s Power for Success
March 7th - Women in Leadership In-Person Event
April 1st - Group Discussion
Discuss current challenges and share key insights and advice – feel empowered and empower others.
May 7th - Workshop
Focus on Why – How to Create Your Purposeful Way of Life
June 3rd - Interview
This session with be an interview, question and answers with Lucia Santa-Maria.
July 1st - Group Discussion
Discuss current challenges and share key insights and advice – feel empowered and empower others.
August 6th - Workshop
Further details to come
September 16th - Group Discussion
Discuss current challenges and share key insights and advice – feel empowered and empower others.
October 7th - LeaderFest 2025
Learn with and from business leaders through listening to experienced leaders being interviewed on stage and collaborating with other attendees during interactive learning sessions.
November 18th - Workshop
Navigating reduced hours working at senior/executive management levels: is job share the way forward?
This group is run by
Jo Luke
Having previously worked in male dominated environments, initially in engineering departments, both in the public and private sector (local authority & WS Atkins, a global engineering design consultancy) and then latterly as Owner/Director of a construction company, Jo passionately believes in the value and perspectives that women bring to leadership. She recognises that globally women have become engines for economic growth & are critically important to improving business outcomes. Jo is proud to be facilitating the Women in Leadership group for MD2MD.
Emma Phipps
Emma is Managing Director for MD2MD, an exclusive community of operational business leaders ambitious to achieve even more business success by becoming even better leaders. Emma has been with the company for nearly ten years and has been a part of its pivot to online during the pandemic and its continuing growth. She is passionate about MD2MD being a diverse, empowering community, that is a force for good, for its members, team, partners and indeed the entire business community as a whole.
Membership Fee
The monthly fee is £125
Fees can be paid monthly, quarterly or annually by direct debit or standing order. There is no joining fee and only 1 months notice period for ceasing membership