Throughout the month of March, we cast a spotlight on EiB’s female leaders in recognition of International Women’s Day
Every day at EiB, we celebrate the remarkable women who lead and inspire us. We are dedicated to developing and nurturing our employees to become talented, multi-skilled bid consultants who are supported in their roles and enjoy the positive working culture at EiB. Hear below from members of our leadership team on how they contribute to fostering this culture through their roles.
Caitlin Murphy, Professional Development Director and Deputy CEO
How are you supported and empowered in your leadership role at EiB?
“I am very fortunate to have been a part of EiB’s growth over the past six years and have benefited from a culture that is focused on developing and empowering its people. I was encouraged to take on my first management role as professional head of graduate development one year after joining the business. Had I not been empowered by my manager to move into this position, I would not have realised how much I enjoy managing and leading teams which has resulted in my role as professional development director.”.
What do you find most fulfilling about your leadership role?
“Over the past six years, the business has grown substantially with women making up 54% of the business. Within our executive leadership and senior management teams, 46% are women. Seeing the development of the team at all levels has been incredible. There are lots of things I find fulfilling about my role! Seeing our graduates develop through a two year programme; people flourishing in roles they didn’t think they were ready for; supporting people through qualifications; welcoming new starters; and every time someone in the team challenges an idea… to name a few!
In my role as deputy CEO, I look forward to working with Scott Brown and the wider executive leadership and senior management teams to drive the continued growth of the business.”
Courtney Hynes, Head of Work Winning services
How are you supported and empowered in your leadership role at EiB?
“In my leadership role at EiB, I am supported through regular training sessions and internal mentorship where I learn from experienced leaders within the company. This guidance helps refine my strategic-thinking and decision-making skills, essential in my role as head of work winning services. EiB also fosters an inclusive culture in which my ideas and contributions are valued, empowering me to take the initiative and drive improvements within our team”.
What do you find most fulfilling about your leadership role?
“What I find most fulfilling about my leadership role is the ability to influence and shape the future of our projects. Leading the work winning services team, I take pride in successfully managing bids that not only secure new projects but also pave the way for innovative practices within the industry. Seeing our work winning services grow, excel and contribute to EiB’s success brings me a sense of accomplishment and purpose.”
Sarah Gibson, Professional Head of Bid Direction and Management
How are you supported and empowered in your leadership role at EiB?
“I am fortunate to have a network of colleagues who provide guidance, share insights, and offer advice when needed. The feedback and encouragement from both my peers and line manager help me grow professionally and promotes a sense of trust in my abilities.”
What do you find most fulfilling about your leadership role?
“What I find most fulfilling about my leadership role is the opportunity to mentor, encourage and build confidence in my team over a longer period. The nature of our consultancy work means my bid team changes project to project, but in my current role I get to invest in my team’s growth consistently. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have many line managers and mentors who have shaped me and I often reflect on the valuable lessons they’ve shared, even from conversations that took place years ago. These discussions still influence my self-talk today. I’m passionate about paying it forward and strive to be a positive and supportive presence.”
Lauren Hewlett, Professional Head of Bid Writing
How are you supported and empowered in your leadership role at EiB?
“I’ve been fortunate to have a line manager who not only supports me in this role but helped me see I had the skills and energy to drive positive change. The bid writing team has been incredibly supportive, embracing me in the role and engaging positively with initiatives I’ve introduced to help us grow and improve together. I’m also empowered by a senior management team with a strong female presence who support and champion each other. Just as importantly, I appreciate the male allies who support inclusive leadership, both within our business and among our clients!”
What do you find most fulfilling about your leadership role?
“Over the past five years, I’ve grown from a graduate to leading our bid writing team, which gives me a deep understanding of the challenges and experiences at every level. I love mentoring others, helping them build their skills and confidence so they feel empowered to succeed in and enjoy their roles. I’m passionate about finding ways to improve, but I know real progress only happens when we bring everyone along on the journey. Working closely with my two deputy professional heads, we create a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where our team can thrive.”
Tali Denham, Deputy Professional Head of Bid Writing
“I felt empowered to take on the role due to the support and encouragement of the management team at EiB. They made me realise that leadership is about more than knowledge, skills and experience; it’s not about telling people how to do their job, but rather building strong relationships with your team based on trust. It’s about having the right attitude and personal attributes to support their personal development and growth.”
What do you find most fulfilling about your leadership role?
“For me, being a good leader is being a good listener. What I find most fulfilling is being the person my team ‘offload’ to – sometimes this is all they need to turn their day around and feel more positive about what’s to come. Through listening and offering honest advice, we come up with solutions to improve the way we work at EiB together. I share insights with the wider management team and we collaborate to continuously improve working processes and culture. In this way, I feel I make a difference.”