Celebrating women’s leadership across the East Midlands for International Women’s Day

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) – the only mayoral authority in England led by both a female Mayor and a female chief executive – gathered together regional leaders to champion women’s leadership and accelerate gender equality ahead of International Women’s Day.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, shows how mentorship, advocacy, and support create opportunities for women while strengthening communities and organisations across the region.

EMCCA’s event, at Derby County Football Club, brought together leaders from business, local government, higher education, and the voluntary sector to celebrate women’s leadership and explore ways to accelerate progress across the region.

Give to Gain

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “In the East Midlands, progress happens when we work together. ‘Give to Gain’ is about recognising that when we invest our time, influence and support in women – through mentorship, advocacy and opening doors – we strengthen not just individual careers, but our communities and our economy.

“As the only mayoral authority in England led by both a female Mayor and a female Chief Executive, we know representation matters – but action matters more. Today is about committing to collective action, so that when women succeed, the East Midlands succeeds with them.”

International Women’s Day

The celebration featured talks by the Mayor and EMCCA’s chief executive officer, Amy Harhoff, highlighting the challenges and milestones on their leadership journeys, as well as roundtable discussions to promote collaboration and identify opportunities for collective action.

The event also included talks by Simon Carnall, Derby County chief operating officer, Megan Booley, the club’s head of marketing, and Emily Payne, captain of the club’s women’s team, followed by a question-and-answer session with the speakers and special guests.

The event took place at Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium, ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March.