Applications are now open for the prestigious ‘One to Watch’ award, organized by Meat Business Women. This award, now in its fifth year, aims to recognize and celebrate young, ambitious women who are making significant contributions to the meat industry in Ireland and the UK. Women under the age of 35 who work in the meat industry are invited to apply or be nominated for the award before the deadline on July 31. The winner will receive £4,000, which can be used for personal and professional development, and will also be invited to attend the awards lunch and networking event on October 5, 2023.
The previous winners of the ‘One to Watch’ award have come from various organizations such as Cranswick plc, ABP Ireland, Marks & Spencer, and Morrisons. They have used the prize money to invest in leadership courses, technical qualifications, and new product development initiatives. The award has proven to be a stepping stone for these young women, propelling them towards further success in their careers.
The judging panel for the 2023 award includes Margaret Boanas, the chair of the International Meat Trade Association; Lucianne Allen, director at Aubrey Allen; Jamila Gordeon, CEO of Lumachain; and Sean Deane, market specialist at Bord Bia. Their expertise and experience will ensure a fair and thorough evaluation of the applicants.
Rebecca Fearon, the membership marketing manager for Meat Business Women, expressed her enthusiasm for the award, stating that it is a passion for the organization to celebrate and support the talented women in the meat industry. She emphasized the tangible benefits that the award provides, including personal development and increased self-confidence. Fearon also highlighted the application process as an opportunity for applicants to reflect on their achievements and acknowledge their progress in their careers.
The application process consists of a series of questions that form the basis for judging. Applicants can submit their applications online, and shortlisted finalists will be contacted in August. This rigorous process ensures that the most deserving candidate is chosen as the ‘One to Watch’ for 2023.
Meat Business Women is a professional networking group that supports women working in the meat industry. It was founded in 2015 by Laura Ryan and Pamela Brook, who recognized the need for greater female representation in the industry, particularly at the board level. Since its inception, the organization has made significant progress in improving gender representation. According to an independent report commissioned by Meat Business Women, women now hold 23% of board-level director roles, 32% of high-level leadership roles, and 32% of middle-manager roles in the meat industry.
However, the report also highlighted areas for improvement. Only 8% of CEO roles in the meat industry are held by women, although this is a 3% increase since 2020. Additionally, the number of women in the global workforce has decreased to 33.5%, down from 36%. These statistics underscore the importance of initiatives like the ‘One to Watch’ award in promoting gender equality and empowering women in the meat industry.
In conclusion, the ‘One to Watch’ award is a fantastic opportunity for young women in the meat industry to be recognized for their achievements and receive support for their future development. Meat Business Women is committed to celebrating and nurturing talent in the industry, and the award serves as a platform for women to showcase their skills and contributions. As the application deadline approaches, aspiring young women in the meat industry are encouraged to seize this opportunity and apply for the ‘One to Watch’ award.