This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, ‘Give to Gain’, highlights the importance of continuing progress for women and girls everywhere through a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

As the IWD 2026 campaign asks:
“Every day, everywhere, how will you actively give your support to gain gender equality?”

The question feels particularly relevant in sales led environments; across the UK, sales and senior commercial roles remain disproportionately male, with women representing roughly one-third of the sales workforce and even fewer at leadership level. That’s why representation and visibility in these spaces matter more than ever and we’re spotlighting the women shaping our culture, performance and leadership across the business.

Beth Jones, our Planning, Governance and Communications Director, has expressed the importance of creating supportive environments.
“When I first started my professional career, I didn’t see many women in senior positions, though I always admired those who were leading from the front. What changed my trajectory wasn’t just opportunity — it was support. Having leaders who challenged me, backed me and gave me room to grow made all the difference. Now, I’m intentional about doing the same for others.”

Cherrelle Rutter, our HR and Customer Experience Lead, has shared how collaboration and support shaped her leadership journey.
“After eight years away from the workplace raising my children, returning felt daunting. What made the difference was the support, trust and mentorship I received from colleagues and managers at SCO, which helped shape the leader I am today.
I lead with fairness, equality and accountability, as I believe leadership carries a responsibility to create transparent environments where everyone has equal access to opportunity and progression. In my roles across HR and Customer Experience, I’m passionate about embedding inclusion as a daily behaviour, not just an initiative. I’ve worked with our management teams to build clear competency frameworks that provide structure and pathways for growth, helping people understand how they can reach their potential. Moving forward, I remain committed to continued growth — both my own and that of the people around me.’

Kodi Goult, a newly promoted Team Leader, has spoken about stepping outside your comfort zone to grow.

“I’m really grateful for the support I’ve received since joining SCO. I’ve always been encouraged to progress by those around me, even at times when I wasn’t sure I was ready to take the next step.
That experience has taught me the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. Growth often comes from trying new things, challenging yourself and having the confidence to take opportunities when they arise.”

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, our colleagues voted to support Endometriosis UK, donating to help raise awareness and provide support for those living with this chronic condition. For us, this donation is a meaningful way of contributing to progress beyond our own organisation.

This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to celebrate the women shaping our business and to continue building a culture where support, opportunity and confidence allow everyone to thrive.