Trailblazing Women: Stories of Impact and Empowerment – #IWD2024

As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, it is our privilege to shine a spotlight on the incredible women across our business. This year, International Women’s Day is celebrated under the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” – achieving gender equality and women’s well-being in all aspects of life is more crucial than ever if we want to create prosperous economies and a healthy planet. SPOKE celebrates extraordinary women across our business who make our workplace more vibrant, compassionate, and forward-looking. Happy International Women’s Day! 

The inspiring stories we feature this year range from community champions to empowering women on their leadership journey in the workplace, a ‘Hot Stepper’ at the recent Health Challenge who teaches us powerful lesson on resilience, wellbeing and work life balance, and more.

Community Champion at LIBERTY Galati – MIRELA STANCIU dedicates her time to support children’s charities and refugees.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we shine the spotlight on Mirela Stanciu, a powerhouse in the Human Resources department in LIBERTY Galati for 29 years, whose commitment to community service echoes far beyond the industrial corridors.

From Analyst-Programmer to the Heart of Human Resources – Having joined LIBERTY Steel in 1995 as an analyst-programmer, Mirela has grown to Head of Human Resources administrative service. This journey reflects not only professional growth but also a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

“My journey at LIBERTY Steel has been a blend of professional growth and a personal commitment to giving back to the community. Every role, every challenge, has been an opportunity to contribute positively.”

Flood Relief in 2009 and the start of volunteerism – In 2009, facing the aftermath of severe floods in North-Eastern Romania, Mirela and a group of compassionate colleagues rallied to aid the victims of the flood. Setting up a tent in Galati, they collected donated goods that impacted families would need, and the idea of collective action really took root.

“That moment in 2009 was a turning point. We realized the power of collective action and the positive change it could bring. It was a simple act of setting up a tent, but it ignited a fire within us to do more for those in need.”

For Mirela’s community work grew steadily since then. Her motivation to dedicate time and effort to support children’s charities and refugees stems from a deep empathy for those in vulnerable situations, including abandoned children, refugees from Ukraine, and other marginalized groups.

“Empathy is the driving force behind our actions. Whether it’s supporting abandoned children or standing with refugees, it’s about being present for those who need it most.”

Mirela has a long history of community work, and these are some of the highlights.

• June – Jorasti 2012: Organizing an event for 80 children from Lunca Village – Jorasti. The activity included activities, donated toys, books, and sweets.
• 15 December 2012: Visiting institutionalised children in Galati, providing new winter items and gifts.
• 20 December 2012: Supporting an artistic project of an orphan girl, Madalina Matei, by assisting in staging a play.
• 15 June 2013: Celebrating Children’s Day and marking the end of the school year in Firtanesti, involving almost 100 children in various activities.
• 19.12.2013: Organizing a show at the LIBERTY Club, featuring people with disabilities from various institutions in Galati.
• 15.11.2014: Offering play invitations to institutionalised children and providing them with a memorable experience.
• 19.12.2015: Playing Santa Claus for 57 institutionalised children, fulfilling their wishes and organizing a festive event at the LIBERTY Club.

“Empowerment comes in many forms. It’s not just about providing necessities but also creating moments of joy and opportunities for growth, especially for women and children.”

Most recently – Mirela rallied LIBERTY staff and encouraged them to jointly host an event for over 200 children over Christmas. She always encourages colleagues to join her efforts and reminds then that even the smallest gesture can have a profound impact on those in need.

“To my fellow colleagues: Your strength lies not just in what you do professionally but in the difference you can make when you extend a helping hand to those who need it most. Embrace the transformative power of service.”

“Our colleagues are the backbone of our volunteer efforts. Their trust and commitment have turned our initiatives into traditions, creating a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.”

On International Women’s Day, Mirela shares a poignant message about the unique impact women can make through community service. She emphasizes the importance of qualities such as empathy, and a tremendous ability for love of others —as powerful catalysts for positive change, transcending conventional notions of femininity.

“Our feminine perspective, our unique strengths, are powerful tools for positive change. In service, we find not just a duty but a transformative journey where we can bring about profound impact on the lives of others.”

ROSIE FLANNIGAN – Navigating Success in Aluminium Manufacturing at ALVANCE BA

In the heart of ALVANCE BA, where molten aluminium flows and innovation takes shape, Rosie Flannigan is an inspiration in her role as Production Supervisor within the Rodding Room department. This department is responsible for crafting cast iron, uniting carbon blocks with rods to forge anodes, essential in the electrolysis process that births molten aluminium.

Chart your own path: When asked about advice for women aspiring to embark on a career in aluminium or manufacturing, “don’t be afraid to try something new. It might not initially be the role you are looking for or the route you planned to take, but never miss an opportunity if there is one presented to you.”

Finding joy in growth: “Since starting work here, I have had many opportunities in each of my roles, helping me grow professionally,” she shares. Rosie is not just a leader in her professional capacity but also an active contributor to the Social Committee, organizing events that bring employees together and champion local causes.

“Rosie’s tenacity, continuous improvement mindset, empathy, and motivation are the driving force behind our success. Her leadership brings immense value not only to our business but also to the team she leads in the anode department. In addition to her responsibilities within our operations team, she also leads a team on site who organise charity and social events, ensuring our annual family fun days and Christmas parties take place each year while supporting local charities, always going above and beyond to ensure everyone has a great time. Here’s to Rosie and to all the inspiring women in our team making a difference every day.”

Tom Uppington

In her dynamic, Rosie believes in the importance of good communication, organisational skills, and effective teamwork.

Rosie embodies the spirit of resilience, growth, and community engagement. Her journey is not just a testament to her personal success but an inspiration for women contemplating careers in manufacturing.

KAREN HUMPHREY – A 30-Year Journey of Wellbeing, Balance, and Inspiration

In the heart of LIBERTY Engineered Wire Products in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, Karen Humphrey is the essence of wellbeing, work-life balance, community spirit and resilience. A seasoned professional with a remarkable 30-year journey at LIBERTY USA, where she has not only excelled in her professional roles but has also emerged as a true inspiration for those around her.

Karen’s journey at LIBERTY USA began on October 31st, 1994, and this October marks her 30-year milestone. Starting her career as a single parent, Karen navigated the challenges of balancing work and family, showcasing unwavering dedication to both her professional and personal responsibilities.

“When I started at LIBERTY Engineered Wire Products, my daughters were 9 and 6 years old. I was a divorced, a primary parent, juggling a career and raising my children. It’s been an incredible journey, filled with growth, challenges, and a commitment to a balanced life.”

She started her professional journey in the Accounts Receivables department, where she handled invoices and tracked sales. In 2000, she was invited to join the Inside Sales team, a move that set the stage for her commitment to driving customer satisfaction. In November 2023, Karen was promoted to Inside Sales Manager.

“Every role has been an opportunity to contribute positively. The evolution from Accounts Receivables to Inside Sales Manager has been a journey of continuous learning and growth.”

As her daughters ventured off to college, Karen found herself in the midst of a lifestyle change – veering towards diabetes and other health concerns. Determined to change her trajectory, she turned to walking as a means of regaining control over her health. What started as a commitment to 5,000 steps per day evolved into a daily routine of walking over 4 miles in an hour.

“Fitness became a priority for me, especially as I was close to becoming a diabetic. Walking became my solace, my way of staying healthy. It’s not just about the steps; it’s about taking charge of your wellbeing.”

…. and then came the GLOBAL HEALTH CHALLENGE.

“Karen’s commitment to fitness was truly awe-inspiring! I know how rigorous the Health Challenge was, and it was amazing to see her incredible drive to stay consistently amongst the Top 10 individual steppers. Her dedication to staying fit sets the bar high for all of us, she’s a testament to a healthy, and balanced, active lifestyle”.

Fran Nores – Global Head of Safety

Karen’s commitment to fitness reached new heights during GFG’s Global Health Challenge. In 2022, she set a goal of 20,000 steps per day, challenging herself despite spending eight hours at a desk. In 2023, her determination continued as she consistently surpassed the 20,000-step mark daily, even doubling that amount on weekends. “It was a challenge at times, but I pushed through with the support of my colleagues. Their encouragement fuelled my determination to surpass my fitness goals.

My family’s happiness is my main motivation. Being active with my grandkids brings me immense joy, and I want to continue doing so for many more years.

As a woman, I feel that I have accomplished a lot in my lifetime. Along with raising my daughters in a single parent household, I was also one of the people in charge for the local 4-H camp for 28 years and I am still strong in the entire 4-H program – even now when my children have long graduated out of the program. I enjoy helping my community and volunteer for whatever I can to try to help.

I have always tried to be a positive person and trying to see the better side of each situation.  Even when life is busy, there seems to always be a way to continue to improve yourself emotionally, physically and mentally to make the world around you be a better place. Life is too precious to let anything be left behind and not experienced.

Ann Dowling’s Story and LIBERTY UK’s Winning Formula

The LIBERTY Aerospace Service Centre in Bolton has recently been celebrated in numerous success stories, highlighting the team’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, passion, and commitment to business principles and goals. Under the leadership of Ann Dowling, the Aerospace Service Centre shines as a beacon of exceptional teamwork, united by shared values. As International Women’s Day approaches, the SPOKE team sat down with Ann to learn how she manages to drive the business forward and empower her team to thrive.

Q: Can you tell us about your journey in the steel industry? What initially drew you to this field, and what have been some of your career’s most significant milestones?

A: I joined the Aerospace Service Centre in April 2004, initially drawn to the business by the role of Finance Manager. While I had no prior experience in the steel industry, it’s an industry where you never stop learning. I was fortunate to play a key role in expanding our operations into Suzhou, China. This involved a diverse range of activities, including training, ensuring regulatory compliance, system integration, and coordination with the China and UK head offices. It was a valuable learning experience, providing a unique opportunity to gain insights and understanding of different cultures, business practices, and regulatory environments. Overcoming these challenges significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth.

Q: Leading the Aerospace Service Centre at Bolton to consistently achieve outstanding results is not an easy task. Can you share some insights into your leadership style and how you motivate your team?

A: Leadership styles can vary, depending on the situation, the team, and the goals at hand. Engaging team members in some of the decision-making processes is a key aspect of effective leadership and can lead to the generation of new ideas and perspectives, which can be invaluable for problem-solving and innovation. 

I have been fortunate to work with many exceptional individuals, past and present, who have shaped my style and approach. One of my past leaders, during a period of business downturn, offered a simple yet profound piece of advice: “You already know the recipe on how it should work. Reset, and apply the right ingredients.” It may sound a little corny but helps to draw on your past experiences and to overcome challenges, it is a reminder that you have the ability to succeed.    

Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for success in a leadership role?

A: Integrity and adaptability are two of the many key aspects I believe in. Integrity is vital for building trust with your team and other stakeholders, enabling the achievement of common goals. Adaptability is crucial, as the steel industry is constantly evolving. It requires being open to new ideas and approaches and being willing to embrace new ways of working. At the same time, resilience is equally important. The industry can be volatile, and in leadership, you need to remain positive and focused in the face of setbacks and be able to adapt quickly.

Q: Can you share an example of a time when your team went above and beyond to satisfy a client’s needs?

A: This question made me smile. There are countless success stories over the years that have involved multiple departments working together. For example, we recently responded quickly to an urgent supply chain demand from Airbus and delivered 900 cuts to them in less than 24 hours.

Last October we successfully passed the BSI Environmental audit without any minor comments or areas for improvement. We also achieved a high rating in the first audit conducted by Rolls-Royce to assess our operations against their Supplier Maturity Assessment (SMA).

All of these achievements are testament to the collective efforts of the entire Bolton team and a wider LIBERTY Steel UK group of departments.

I think we need to share more of our success stories as they are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when everyone works together as a team.

Q: Work-life balance can be a challenge, especially in demanding roles. How do you manage to maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional life?

A: Finding the right balance between being responsive to business needs and taking care of your own well-being can be challenging, especially in leadership roles. There will be times when I do need to go the extra mile, but it is also crucial to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. I truly believe that the pandemic in 2020 served me as a personal wake-up call, prompting me to re-evaluate my own work-life balance and the importance of having time to recharge and focus on my personal interests.

Q: The steel industry has traditionally been male dominated. What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?

A: Fortunately, I haven’t encountered significant challenges solely due to the industry’s male dominance. Throughout my career, I’ve received invaluable positive guidance. Confidence and self-belief are crucial, and one should never hesitate to seek support when needed. Building relationships also go a long way in gaining acceptance and a support.

Q: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to build successful careers in the steel industry or any other male-dominated field?

A: My advice is simple: believe in yourself and your abilities. Don’t let outdated stereotypes undermine your self-worth. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside inspiring women who have served as role models and mentors throughout my career. Learning from their experiences significantly helped me navigate my own career path.

Q: Looking towards the future, what are your hopes and aspirations for women in the steel industry and beyond?

A: My hope is to see more women encouraged and supported in their pursuit of leadership positions within the steel industry and beyond. It’s crucial for women to have the confidence and self-belief to actively seek out these opportunities and contribute their unique skills and perspectives to leadership roles across various industries.

LEADING THE CHARGE: InfraBuild’s Women Leaders Share Their Stories With Xplore and Discover

The theme for this International Women’s Day (8^th March) is ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress”, because progress for women is progress for all. This sentiment is truly exemplified by the trailblazing women of InfraBuild, where leadership is nurtured to become a force for change. Through InfraBuild’s innovative leadership and career resilience programmes Xplore and Discover, the company is not just investing in and empowering female employees – they are paving the way for a more equitable future.

Investing in Potential, Fuelling Growth

“It’s not just about me,” says Emily Telling, Sydney Area Manager for ARC and Xplore graduate. “By investing in myself, I become a better leader, coach, and mentor for my team. This programme empowers me to empower them.”

Xplore equips early-career women with the tools and confidence to become impactful leaders. Jessica Barry, now HR Shared Services Manager, shares this sentiment: “Before Xplore, I led a small team. The programme gave me the confidence to step up and pursue my career goals. Now, I manage a newly created team, and I’m energised by the opportunity to lead with passion and purpose.”

Amandeep Kaur, Modeller, recalls her journey: “Before, self-doubt held me back. The program’s rigorous self-reflection helped me acknowledge my strengths and emerge more confident. Now, I believe in myself and my ability to succeed.”

The Impact of ‘Discover’

Designed for senior leaders, Discover focuses on resilience and purpose-driven leadership. Lily Collins, Queensland Ferrous Trading Manager, faced a personal challenge during Discover: “Balancing the programme with work made me doubt myself. But by remembering the support of my cohort and the valuable lessons learned, I took calculated risks and landed a new, technical role. Discover pushed me to embrace growth, and it paid off!”

Pooja Bhatt, Supply Chain Business Partner, highlights the program’s tangible impact: “Discover’s insights and strategies have been instrumental in navigating leadership challenges. They’ve equipped me to inspire, motivate, and guide my team effectively, fostering a positive and inclusive work culture.”

“I always felt a little stuck,” admits Maggie Boutros, Senior Legal Counsel and Discover graduate. “Discover directed me towards positive self-reflection. It boosted my confidence and helped me plan for my ideal future, both personally and professionally.”

Addressing the Broken Rung:

It’s important to acknowledge that while glass ceilings remain a barrier, recent research by McKinsey Women in the Workplace 2023 report | McKinsey reveals a more immediate hurdle for women: the broken rung. This refers to the disproportionately low rate at which women are promoted to manager-level positions, creating a gap that widens throughout their careers. Xplore directly addresses this broken rung by:

• Identifying high-potential early-career women with leadership aspirations.
• Equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in management roles.
• Providing mentorship and support networks to help them navigate challenges and advance their careers.

Beyond Individual Growth: A Network of Support

“Leadership is about making others better,” emphasises Maggie Boutros. “I’m excited to put these learnings into practice and empower others within the network we’ve built.”

The supportive network formed by each cohort is a key strength. “We share knowledge, celebrate successes, and lift each other up,” says Emily Telling. “It’s not just a program, it’s a community.” Alumni of both Xplore and Discover group (on the Workplace channel and via Teams) stay in regular contact, so that those in the network can continue to share learnings and collaborate with one another. The establishment and engagement within the network are some of the biggest wins and strengths of the programme.

The Power of Transformation

The final presentations to the Executive team showcase the talent nurtured by these programmes. Our Executive team is incredibly supportive and engaged. They witness the talent within our organisation and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women, sending a powerful message of inclusivity and opportunity.”

Mala Jagannath

Accelerating progress:

With two successful cohorts and two more on the horizon, InfraBuild is committed to developing female leaders. So far, 45 women who have graduated from the Discover Leadership and Xplore Leadership Programmes, concluding their programmes with a presentation at the Head Office in front of the Executive team and other senior leaders. The participants, who are senior leaders from across our business, all have diverse backgrounds which range from IT, finance, supply chain, operations, customer service, legal and commercial services. This dedication to inclusivity ensures a brighter future for the company and the industry as a whole.

The spirit behind the programme is to make it authentic and truly inclusive and to avoid it falling into the trap of ‘tokenism’.  Senior leaders are continued to be invested in development conversations with the cohort, and are serious about supporting participants to achieve their career goals and development plans.

Anna Strooband, National Sales Manager Cyclone – Wire, “this programme has been instrumental in providing me with valuable insights and skills that have significantly influenced my approach to leadership. The training equipped me with effective communication techniques, strategies for building a supportive network and a deeper understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion in leadership. As a result, I now approach leadership opportunities with renewed confidence and a clear vision for empowering other women in their leadership roles”.

Following the success of the programmes in InfraBuild, employees at Liberty Primary Metals Australia can also look forward to the programme being launched within their business in the coming months. Join us in celebrating these inspiring women and the positive impact of InfraBuild’s leadership programs. Let’s continue to champion the potential of women leaders and pave the way for a more inclusive and thriving workplace for all.

A Catalyst for Positive Change – Meet Ceri

In the heart of LIBERTY Steel Newport, where challenges have tested the mettle of the team, one individual has emerged as a pillar of stability and inspiration. Ceri Bush, with over three years of dedicated service, reminds us to stay steadfast and resilient in the face of adversity. She is someone who not only excels in her role but also inspires those around her.

A Steadfast Presence in Difficult Times

In the midst of challenging times at Newport, Ceri Bush has maintained a position of unwavering stability for those around her. She finds ways to support, mentor, and uplift her colleagues, especially in Liberty Capital UK. Colleagues speak of her as a source of knowledge, always willing to go above and beyond to ensure the success of her team.

Crucial Contributions to Credit Control

For over three years, Ceri Bush has been an integral part of Liberty Steel Newport, taking on the responsibility of overseeing credit control for both Liberty Newport and Liberty Capital UK. Her business knowledge and expertise have played a vital role in strengthening credit control performance and improving the overall cash position. Ceri’s resourcefulness and adeptness in managing change align seamlessly with GFG’s core values.

A Driving Force in Transformation

Liberty Steel Newport has undergone significant transformation, and Ceri Bush has been a driving force in maintaining a positive office outlook. Her enterprising approach to developing new processes within a short period has proven invaluable, particularly in the establishment of LIBERTY Capital, where her leadership has been instrumental in setting the foundation for success.

Her guiding philosophy of ‘treat others as you’d want to be treated yourself’ resonates within the team dynamics, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

“Ceri is a joy to work with, extremely hardworking, and a great example of a team player. Her cheerful demeanour and patient mentorship brighten everyone’s day, creating a positive and collaborative work atmosphere.” – Aaron Bowal, Financial Accountant.

GFG Family Values Exemplified

“In Ceri, we have an outstanding individual that demonstrates GFG family values and will always deliver in today’s changing environment.”

Lindy Fenech

As Liberty Steel Newport continues to navigate challenges and embrace transformation, Ceri Bush remains a guiding light—a leader who not only meets expectations but exceeds them, leaving an indelible mark on the journey toward success.