ICAEW's Women in Leadership (WiL) programme is designed to help women in senior management, partner or board roles refine and craft their authentic leadership style. In this interview, Dianna MacDuff, Head of Business Development at British Sugar shares why she enrolled on WiL.
Diana MacDuff
Head of Business Development, British Sugar
What motivated you to enrol on WIL ?
At the time, I felt I was at a crossroads in my career. I was unsure how to progress to the next level whilst continuing to balance my family commitments. WIL seemed to be the solution I needed to gain back control.What has been the greatest benefit of WIL?
The programme has introduced to me to a fantastic group of women, many of whom struggle with similar issues to me. It has made me realise that I am not alone and the support that I have received from the other members of the group, as well as from my mentor and the programme facilitators, has been amazing. It has given me the courage to initiate debate at a senior level on ways to improve gender diversity within ABF.How has WiL differed from other leadership programmes you have attended?
WIL focused on identifying my strengths and how I can use them to develop my own authentic leadership style, rather than focusing on the things I need to change or improve - which was very refreshing. The programme also included a lot of practical advice on how I can progress my career, emphasising staying true to oneself as a woman, but understanding how to do that within a predominantly male environment.
Would you recommend WiL to others?
Absolutely. WiL has been invaluable.