Swindon Lives - International Women's Day Special - Nicky Alberry

In this edition of our Swindon Lives - International Women's Day Special, we spoke with Nicky Alberry - Vice Chairman at Swindon & Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

What would you say is your most valuable skill?

I have a real interest in people – I like meeting new people – particularly those who are working in business – so if I can engage with them, help & support them in what they are trying to achieve that is great.

Do you have family (and/or children)?

I have 2 grown up step daughters – Charlotte is a buyer for a major supermarket & Bex is a Dr. of Clinical Psychology.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

It’s hard – as I love the work that I do. Now we all have access to emails on our phones it is difficult to “separate work from home time” – I have 2 border collies though & they need walking every day so that helps hugely & I am a keen gardener & amateur runner so I try & find time to run every few days.

Are there any strong female figures who you would cite as your idols?

I really admire Aung San Suu Kyi – she is a remarkable woman – she has faced so many challenges in her life & yet still seems so full of hope & compassion.

Have you ever had to give up or miss out on anything in order to pursue your career?

Not really – when I first started my career in Banking back in the 80s I worked full time & studied to get my professional qualifications – college 2 nights a week then essays, reading etc meant there was little time for fun! Also, I moved away from home early on with my work, so I had to be quite flexible & independent – I missed being close to my family.

Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give to fellow females looking to get into your profession?

I really believe you should do a job you enjoy – I have been so lucky moving from banking into the world of business & economic development. I have loved every day of it…well almost.

Also, work hard & treat everyone as you would like to be treated by them.

Do you ever experience any discrimination in the workplace because of your gender?

In the 1980s the business world was very different to today – I was the 1^st female manager to be appointed in Cornwall so that proved interesting on occasions!

Do men ever feel intimidated by your success?

They wouldn’t dare!! – No to be serious – you will have to ask them                        

As a successful female, where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

Happy, healthy & still involved in some way in the wonderful world of business