Performance and Diversity are they really linked?

Alison is one of two Sheriffs of the City of London. She has practised as a solicitor in the City of London all her working life specialising in commercial property at international law firm DLA Piper. As well as serving on numerous City Corporation committees, she is a Governor of the Museum of London and MOLA. Alison has just concluded a term as a Director of the Green Finance Institute and still promotes green finance.

A strong and committed advocate of diversity and inclusion, she is involved in a wealth of influential initiatives to create a more inclusive working environment and society. She has led from the front specifically on tackling gender and race discriminations, both in her political position and in her many roles on committees. She was the Prime Minister’s Ministerial global champion for tackling violence against women and girls. She co-founded Powerful Women, as an energy minister when she saw the lack of senior women in the energy sector, helping change the way women are supported in the sector by the senior leadership of the sector. She is Chair of UN Women UK, the national committee of UN Women the only UN organisation that focuses specifically on women and girls.

Director of Policy & Corporate Governance, Institute of Directors

Philippa is a professional business mentor and the ABM London Regional Head for London. She uses her 30-year small business experience to transform businesses. She has specific competences in ensuring products and services are developed and priced in a way that prospects and customers buy.

Marketer, Entrepreneur, Women’s Rights Campaigner
After working in the corporate sector for 20 years Vanessa now works with clients to communicate their business values to a wider audience.
Vanessa volunteers on various City of London committees. She has a law degree and a miniature pinscher called Beetroot.