Where are the Women?
- axisaberdeen
- Sep 23
- 3 min read
AXIS Network recently participated in a joint SPE / OEUK event entitled, Where are the Women? The occasion sought to address the question of why, despite women being crucial to the industry's future, there aren't more in leadership roles within the sector. Whilst women make up over 50% of the UK population, they currently represent a significantly smaller percentage of the energy workforce, particularly in leadership positions. The event discussion focused on how to address barriers and foster a more inclusive and diverse future.
The occasion showcased inspirational leaders who provided valuable insights into the challenges women encounter in the industry and potential solutions. David Whitehouse, CEO of OEUK, was the first to speak, engaging in a fireside chat with Leanne Linacre, CEO of Lead5050. Lead5050 specializes in consulting on the gender pay gap, and the discussion centred on the current state of the industry regarding this issue and its implications. They also explored how organizations can drive change in this area, discussing aspects like recruitment and policy modifications. The focus shifted to the 'always on' culture that can sometimes prevail in the industry. Leanne emphasized the need to dismantle this culture to promote inclusion.
Attendees also heard from Katy Heidenreich, Supply Chain and People Director at OEUK, and Doris Reiter, Senior Vice President North Sea at bp. The conversation focused on the opportunities and challenges in the industry relating to achieving gender parity. Doris shared her personal path to success along with the challenges she has faced and occasionally still encounters. Notably, even senior figures such as Doris continue to experience situations where a man talks over her. If our senior leaders still face these basic challenges, it indicates that progress is still needed. Doris also went on to candidly acknowledge her role model status and stressed the importance she places on this responsibility.
The third session concentrated on 'The path forward' with an excellent panel which included: Rt Hon Claire Coutinho MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero & Shadow Minister for Equalities, Hannah Bardell, Business & Equalities Consultant, Political Commentator and Speaker, HKB Consulting Ltd; Bob Drummond, Chief Executive Officer, D2Zero, Gary Ford, Co-founder and Managing Director, Men for Inclusion and Natalie Coupar, Marketing and Communications Director, OEUK. They discussed the importance of the role of men in changing culture and how this not only needs private sector focus but also the critical role that government plays both nationally and locally. There were also reflective moments, looking back over the North Sea oil and gas history and highlighting how far we have come since those early days.
The last session tackled 'Accelerating progress' and AXIS Network shared our vision for the future through our Vision 2030 campaign. Vision 2030 was introduced a year ago to expedite efforts towards reaching gender equity by the United Nations' 2030 target. It's relevant to all organisations, whether large or small and focuses on building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
AXIS Network have purposefully not set a target split that must be achieved, our focus is on:
Making the working environment and attractive place to be – so we can recruit more and retain more talent. This is essential for us to continue and expand on our home grown energy mix.
Bringing the right culture which allows everyone the opportunity to join, progress and develop; which will translate to diverse teams.
Vision 2030 outlines a pathway to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace:
Step 1: Join the AXIS pledge and commit to attracting, retaining and developing a diverse workforce.
Step 2: Inclusion valued as a core leadership trait, with value placed on nurturing business cultures in which diversity thrives.
Step 3: Transparent promotions & performance models which tackle hidden or underlying systemic bias, ensuring that they are applied fairly across the whole organisation.
Step 4: Sponsor women & men equally promoting the skills of a diverse range of individuals for consideration in new opportunities.
Step 5: Flexible working for all regardless of who or what the flexibility is wanted for, recognising the value that engaged staff bring to the industry.
Step 6: Equal parenting policies by bringing paternity leave policies in line with maternity leave policies and encouraging uptake.
Step 7: Return-ships encouraging and facilitating those that have left the industry for caring responsibilities, ill health or other reasons to return.
Whether through influence or leadership, attendees were encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Vision 2030 steps and recognise how they can contribute within their own organisation.
AXIS Network concluded the session with a powerful reminder: every single person, in every area of an organisation plays a vital role in shaping our culture. This is our opportunity for positive change. Lets use it.
