Development Monthly | #41 March 2025 | The Power of Connection: Building Strong Networks for Success in HE

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women globally, but we also acknowledge the persistent barriers that hold many of us back. One of the most powerful tools we have to break through those barriers is networking. As someone who has navigated journalism, academia, professional leadership, and the charity sector, I have learned first-hand that success is not just about talent or hard work—it’s also about relationships, collaboration, and strategic connections.

The reality for women in higher education: Women in academia and professional services often face unique challenges. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles, and gender biases continue to shape opportunities for advancement. A recent study by Advance HE found that while women comprise nearly half of the higher education workforce, they hold only 28% of professorial roles and an even smaller percentage of vice-chancellorships.

These statistics are not just numbers—they represent the untapped potential of thousands of highly skilled, dedicated women who could be leading, innovating, and shaping the future of our institutions. Networking is one of the most effective ways to challenge these barriers and create new pathways for women to thrive.

My journey: from journalism to academia and beyond

I did not come from privilege, nor did I have ready-made connections in the professional world. I was the first in my family to attend university and started my career as a journalist in Merseyside. Reporting on major events like the Hillsborough disaster and the James Bulger case made me acutely aware of how narratives shape public perceptions—and how power structures shape careers. I later transitioned into academia, where I saw similar patterns in terms of who was listened to, who was promoted, and who had access to opportunities.

My journey took me through senior academic roles, the leadership of professional bodies, and now the charity sector. At every step, my professional network has been my most valuable asset. Networking introduced me to mentors who encouraged me to pursue leadership positions. It connected me to collaborative projects that shaped policy change. And it gave me the resilience to navigate the moments of doubt and imposter syndrome that so many of us experience.

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