Founded by IWater members and employees who have built successful careers in the water sector, the Women’s Network aims to:
The Women’s Network understands that the UK water sector still lacks diversity in 2023, and women are still underrepresented. Sector demographics published by Energy & Utility Skills highlight that women only make up 19% of today’s water sector workforce (and many other minorities are even less represented), compared to the 47% of women in all sectors nationally.
The Women’s Network is passionate about creating change to influence more women to work in the water sector, to stay working in the water sector, and to support their career journey throughout.
The Network’s guiding principle is to ensure this programme does not act as a barrier and is inclusive to all who wish to participate. That is why there is no need to join formally– all IWater members are able to access the Women’s Network freely and without a subscription needed.
If you have any ideas for the Women’s Network then please contact us
Anglian Water
I am a Chartered Scientist and have over 20 years experience in the water industry which is so vital to public health and the environment. There have been huge steps forward in the representation of women in roles across our industry since I joined but there is still more to be done and so I am really keen to work with the Institute of Water on supporting and encouraging women in their careers in this great industry.
South Staffs Water
I am a Chartered Scientist with 11 years’ experience within the Water Industry. Having worked within varying disciplines during my career, I am eager to help build support networks for women and help them succeed at any role and level within this exciting industry. I am a strong advocate and supporter of the Institute of Water and currently sit as Vice Chair on the Eastern Area Committee.
Scottish Water
I am a Chartered water industry professional with 9 years’ experience working for Scottish Water and previous experience working within a professional membership body. My current role is as the Investment Appraisal Transformation Manager, working to ensure we make smarter investment choices to generate value for our customers. Outside of work I am a Non-Exec Director for a local community leisure centre and sit on the Scottish Area Committee.
Skewb
I am a Senior Project Manager for a utilities consultancy in the water sector, combining programme delivery expertise with a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, particularly for women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other underrepresented groups. I’m also the Chair of the Women’s Network Steering Group.
I am passionate about proactively championing women at all stages of their life and career across the sector, and helping to shape a more diverse, inclusive, and resilient future for the industry. I’ve seen first‑hand the value of inclusive networks in driving innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, and I am looking forward to continuing this work within our network.
I am proud to support initiatives that empower individuals and organisations alike, recognising the critical role that diversity plays in strengthening both people and the sector as a whole.
Institute of Water
Fiona heads up the Institute’s Membership, Marketing and Communications Team who are passionate about using the wide range of communications channels and techniques to build engagement, value and impact for our members and the wider sector.
She has over 20 years of experience as a communications and engagement professional spanning diverse sectors including water, healthcare, insurance, transport, and international non-profits.
Anglian Water
Rose has worked in the water industry for over a decade. Her background is in senior external stakeholder engagement and she currently holds the position of Regional Water Recycling Network Manager.
In 2022, Rose joined the Water Recycling Operations department at Anglian Water, bringing a stakeholder focus to programme management, ensuring that we are delivering an effective and efficient service to our water industry customers and the environment.
Rose is in the role of Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Board Champion, within the role she focuses on bringing new ideas and a different outlook, and to represent the future of our Institute. The Institute of Water Board is committed to a policy of inclusion and equality for all its staff, members and stakeholders. The is in recognition of the value that a diverse water industry brings to society, and Rose and the Board are committed to promoting these benefits.
Find out about our forthcoming Women’s Network events here
The Women’s Network is a free feature of IWater membership and is open for anyone working in the UK Water Sector to join, no matter their occupation or experience level.
The Women’s Network creates a community of support and a variety of events for you to engage with annually, you can connect with us at any time!
