TGt Meets... Debbie Clark - IWD Special

Debbie Clark, Jessie May's Charity Partner Officer, spoke to us about International Women's Day and her plans for the future in honour of this day.

Name: Debbie Clark 

Location: Swindon, Wiltshire  

Occupation: Charity Partnership Officer  

Which woman would you compare yourself to?

Helen Mirren  

What would you say is your most valuable skill and why?

Empathy 

Why do you think it's important to have an International Women's Day? 

This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect and to chart how far women have come over the last 100 years – for today’s generation this should be a wonderfully inspirational journey. My fear is this is sometimes hijacked by overzealous feminists who utilise this to protest rather than acknowledge the successes. 

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

I try to play to my strengths and try to prioritise my time and acknowledge what is urgent and what can wait; understand what are my most productive times of the day and plot the more demanding tasks to this time for the best possible outcome. 

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

No not directly but have had to postpone things in order to achieve certain goals. 

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

No I have been very lucky I have worked for some very good companies. 

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

Remember your passion in the tough times, be honest and be yourself, embrace that not everyone will like you and that’s OK. 

If you could have dinner with 5 inspirational women dead or alive, who would they be?  

Helen Mirren, Judi Dench, Mother Teresa, Amy Johnson, Averil Mansfield 

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

Once Jessie May is truly established as The Local Charity I plan to travel in a VW Camper that has been restored allowing me to no longer be governed by “The Clock”.