International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th each year, is a global occasion dedicated to recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s also a call to action for accelerating gender parity and empowering women across all sectors of society. This day serves as a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and highlights the ongoing efforts needed to address the disparities that still exist.
As I prepare to move into the next stage of my career, I’ve taken time to reflect on the journey that has brought me to this point. From my decision to study business and finance at university, to the pain of studying for the professional accounting accreditation whilst working more than a full-time job, to the luck of finding a position in the CRM team at Microsoft UK, and then making the ‘brave’ move across the Atlantic to start a new life in Canada which eventually brought me to Purely CRM and Endeavour Solutions. Every step of the way has been a challenge yet enjoyable. Along the way I was made redundant/terminated twice, once in the UK and once in Canada, and still, I wouldn’t change a thing.
The sheer panic of being told at 9.15am that you no longer have a job and that you have 2 weeks severance, is a huge shock. My husband and I had a mortgage to pay and limited savings, I thought the world was going to end, I remember wandering around Vancouver for hours in a daze not knowing which way to turn or what to do, but later that day one of my colleagues who was still at the company, looked me in the eyes and with conviction said to me “I know you’re going to be ok”, at that time he had more faith in me than I had in myself, and I had only known him 4 months, turns out he was right. I haven’t seen that person since the day I was terminated, but I’ve always remembered what he said, if you are reading this, thank you, your words made a difference that day. The chances are he doesn’t remember that conversation, he may remember the team sitting at the table in Cactus Club but probably not the conversation.
As friends, leaders, or strangers, we seldom receive feedback on the impact of our words, whether positive or negative. It is important to be mindful that our speech and its delivery can affect individuals differently and it’s difficult to predict how someone will interpret our words or how long the remark will be remembered.
Several years after I exited that company, I became an owner of my own company; Purely CRM. Even before I became an owner, I knew based on their character, that the owner of the company that terminated me, was personally affected by the decision that needed to be made that day. I’m sure they didn’t want to let go of team members who they saw as friends, people that had put their heart and soul into the work they’d delivered, but leaders must make and execute tough decisions for the organisations long-term benefit. I still have a lot of respect for the owner of that company, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and I’ve harbored no ill will, in fact I’m thankful they made the decision they made that day, had I not been terminated I likely would not be where I am today.
As I move into my new role later this month, I’m conscious that stepping into the role of President and Chief Operating Officer is a profound milestone, both personally and professionally. It’s more than a title, it’s a commitment to a vision, a promise to lead, and an acknowledgment of the trust that others have placed in me. For me, becoming COO signifies an evolution: not only in my career but also in my understanding of responsibility, collaboration, and the impact I can have on an organization and its people. This role represents a delicate balance between strategy and execution. As COO, I become the bridge between vision and reality, translating big-picture goals into actionable plans that drive the organization forward. It’s a role that means being the calm in the storm, the voice of reason when challenges arise, and the champion of the team’s collective achievements.
On a personal level, this transition is both humbling and invigorating. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and mentors that have shaped me, and to honor those lessons by paying them forward. It’s also a chance to embrace new challenges, push my boundaries, and grow into a leader who inspires confidence and drives positive change.
For most of my career, I have navigated the unique challenges and opportunities that come with working in male-dominated industries and male-dominated teams. These environments can be both rewarding and demanding, often requiring resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to one’s goals.
One of the most notable aspects of such workplaces is the opportunity to serve as a trailblazer, challenging norms and breaking down barriers. While male-dominated spaces may sometimes lack diverse perspectives, the presence of women can foster greater innovation and inclusivity. Yet, it’s not without its hurdles. Women in these settings often contend with unconscious biases, the pressure to prove themselves repeatedly, and the challenge of balancing assertiveness with societal expectations. I’ve encountered all these hurdles and challenges during my 30-year career.
Despite these obstacles, my journey has been filled with valuable lessons. I’ve learnt the importance of building strong networks of support, both within and outside the workplace, my husband has been one of those. Finding mentors and allies, regardless of gender, has been instrumental in navigating professional challenges. I’ve also discovered the power of advocating for oneself, ensuring that my voice is heard and contributions recognized.
Working in male-dominated industries has also highlighted the need for promoting equitable hiring practices and fostering inclusive leadership, organizations must prioritize creating spaces where everyone can thrive. I take pride in contributing to this shift by encouraging diversity and mentoring others who aspire to enter this industry.
Ultimately, these experiences have shaped me into a stronger and more resourceful professional. They have reinforced my belief in the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and the collective effort to build workplaces where diversity isn’t just welcomed, it’s celebrated.
Becoming COO is not just about what I’ll do, it’s about who I’ll become. It’s a chance to align my values with my actions, to lead with empathy and conviction, and to contribute to a legacy that’s bigger than myself. It’s a role that will require everything I’ve learned so far and demand that I learn even more along the way. But more than anything, it’s an exciting new chapter, a challenge I embrace wholeheartedly.
Happy International Women’s Day
Nicola Cadwell, Vice President, CRM PMO
