Initially I Was The Only Woman On The Man

Initially I was the only woman on the management team of ten and the men candidly asked, "Can we trust you?". We've since developed a good relationship based on trust and mutual respect. It's interesting that several directors developed posts similar to mine in their own departments - in all cases held by senior women managers. We act as catalysts; mediators, a conscience - part of the Yin and Yang balance. Watching the effectiveness of these male/female partnerships has confirmed my view that organizations need a mind, a body and a spirit - and a healthy male] female management balance enables you to achieve this if they are equal partners.

'My husband retired early at the time I was going back to work. He joined the board of governors of a school, was appointed as an industrial tribunal member and has become more involved in the local community. He's now able to give more time to the family and to enjoy the children as they grow up.

'I've been courted by head hunters to return to the private sector, but none of the offers have felt 'right and I know my current position is enabling me to gain the kind of experience difficult to match anywhere else. Within the last three months, I have been appointed a non-executive director of a local NHS Trust. It is work that I enjoy immensely and it complements my full-time role with the Council.'

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