The 2017 Worldpay Everywoman in Retail Ambassador Programme has launched its search for the industry’s most inspiring female role models.
The programme aims to celebrate individuals whose success makes them an ambassador for their industry and a role model for other women considering a career in retail.
Also celebrating its 10th anniversary, it is drawing on the theme of ‘Reinventing Retail’, recognising the role that technology has played in the transformation of the retail industry over recent years.
As the UK’s largest private sector employer, the retail industry is expected to increase its recruitment requirements by 14% in 2017 to 3.3 million employees.
Digital development is a hot prediction for 2017, with brands investing heavily to add value to customer experiences. Major retailers are already exploring enhanced shopping experiences such as personal recognition, digital wallets, artificial intelligence and robotics.
Maxine Benson, co-founder of Everywoman, commented: “We’re proud to have reached this 10-year milestone of celebrating women in retail. As we look back, it is fantastic to see what an impact this programme has had on the careers of our previous ambassadors and how their success continues to grow.
“A major focus for retailers is delivering the ideal customer service. With research showing that gender-diverse organisations are more innovative and in touch with their customer base, this year’s programme will shine the spotlight on those women who are going above and beyond to ensure that customer expectations are met. They will be extraordinary women whose careers and stories are inspiring others to see the diversity that retail offers.”
Kirsty Whitehead, general counsel at Worldpay UK, added: “Worldpay is proud to be supporting Everywoman for another year and we’re delighted to be sponsoring the Everywoman in Retail Ambassador Programme. At Worldpay, we’re in a privileged position to work with hundreds of thousands of retailers of all sizes across the UK, helping them take card payments in-store, online and on the move. I’m looking forward to hearing the inspirational stories of some of the women who are excelling in this dynamic sector and celebrating their success on a national stage.”
The deadline for applications is May 15 and the 2017 ambassadors will be announced at an awards ceremony and dinner on September 12 in London.
- For more information or to nominate someone, visit the everywoman website here