In celebration of International Women’s Day, we had the privilege of speaking with Becky Brailsford, Senior Product Development Manager at Billington Foods, an industry-leading food manufacturer supplying the UK’s foodservice, retail and B2B markets.
Becky is currently studying the Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship qualification with Activate Business School in partnership with Grant Thornton. She started the qualification in January 2023 and shares her transformative journey and insights on women’s empowerment in the workplace.
Career development and opportunities
Reflecting on her time with Activate Business School, Becky highlights the profound impact on her career. The skills acquired during the course have not only propelled her professional development but have also proven invaluable in navigating challenging situations. The newfound confidence has positioned her for success in her current role and ignited anticipation for future opportunities.
“The skills gained from the course have helped massively not only to push myself in my professional development but also come in handy when situations with colleagues and customers that have arisen. It has given me the confidence to go into my new role and look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
Course experience
Acknowledging the initial apprehension of adult learning, Becky commends the well-balanced mix of online workshops and assignments. The programmes flexibility seamlessly integrates with her day-to-day work life, while a robust support system, including tutors and fellow apprentices, enhances the overall learning experience. Collaboration and shared experiences contribute to a supportive and encouraging educational journey.
“Adult learning can always be a little daunting; however, the mix of online workshops and assignments has given the correct amount of manageable learning to fit around my day-to-day work life.
“There is lots of support not only from your tutor, but also getting advice from other apprentices whether it be help with the course, or experiences, or advice on management problems or issues.”
Inspiration and career path
Driven by a strong belief in personal initiative and hard work, Becky shares her motivation to pursue the course. Identifying management and leadership as the next phase in her career, she sought the extra help needed to achieve her goals. The recommendation from the Group Head of People, coupled with the success story of a colleague in the programme, solidified her decision to embark on this transformative educational journey.
“I am a great believer that if you want something you have to work hard and go get it yourself which was the real push for me to put myself for the course.
“I like to challenge myself; I had identified that management and leadership was the next progression in my career but felt I needed that little extra help to get me to where I needed to be.”
Proud achievements
Becky’s proudest achievement extends beyond acquiring skills and knowledge. Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt, the course has instilled in her the confidence to believe in herself.
“Gaining the confidence to believe in myself, like many others I have suffered with imposter syndrome and self- doubt and often thought that I haven’t been good enough. The course has given me not only the skills and knowledge but also the confidence to believe in myself and push myself for a promotion within the business to Senior Product Development Manager.”
Advice for future students
Encouraging others to pursue similar programmes, Becky urges aspiring individuals to seize the opportunity and emphasises the pivotal role of personal choice in initiating positive change.
“My advice would be to absolutely go for it, the skills and knowledge gained over the last 14 months have been invaluable and have prepared me for the future. There is only one person who can truly make that decision to go out and make that change, and that’s yourself.”
Inspiring inclusion and developmental opportunities
To foster inclusion and developmental opportunities for women, Becky advocates for organisations to embed inclusivity in their culture and values and encourages women to be assertive.
“Organisations can promote inclusivity and ensure that this is embedded in the culture and values, championing inclusivity and equality. My advice would be sometimes being the loudest in the room is not always a bad thing, don’t let others outshine you. And if you want that role — go for it.”
Personal inspiration
Reflecting on a woman who inspired her in the industry, Becky recalls the ‘Head of Food’ in her first organisation, admiring her work style and ability to value others.
“She had great presence and was well respected in every room she walked in, I loved her professional yet laid back style and the way she made everyone feel valued, this is what I aim to emulate in my new role as Senior Product Development Manager.”
Becky Brailsford’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on a woman’s career. This International Women’s Day, her story serves as an inspiration for women pursuing leadership roles, highlighting the importance of confidence, perseverance, and embracing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
