International Women’s Day 2023 – Meet Lindsey Brown

Tell us a bit about yourself…

My name is Lindsey Brown. I have worked in the energy industry since 2019 as an Account Director and have the hugely satisfying role of helping and guiding Independent Schools and Further Education organisations on their path to Net Zero, saving costs and reducing their carbon footprint.

This may include measures such as helping them identify energy wastage or ensuring all lighting is converted to LED or looking at on-site generation opportunities such as Solar PV  or installing EV charge-points.

Which women inspire you and why?

Meryl Streep has always been a woman I hold in high esteem. She has had a hugely successful career in an industry dominated by men and proved that women can excel if you work really hard to achieve your goals. She has been nominated a whopping 17 times for an Oscar, winning three times, and 27 times for a Golden Globe, winning eight times. Every Actress or Actor who knows Meryl hold her in high regard and whilst she is a modest person, she is known to be a joy to work with.

Another reason I admire Meryl is that she is the National Spokesperson for the National Women’s History Museum. The National Women’s History Museum is an educational institution dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and celebrating the diverse historic contributions of women, and integrating this rich heritage fully into our nation’s history. The museum aims to inform the public and encourage equality. Meryl Streep serves as their spokeswoman and donates frequently to the cause.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #EmbraceEquity, what does that mean to you?

For me “To Embrace Equity” you must first understand the inequities people face in the workplace and then work to readdress the balance.

This means fair opportunities and access for ALL people. To achieve equality you need equity to get there and to appreciate that we do not all start from the same place. Equity recognises that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact same resources and opportunities required to reach an equal outcome.

What do you think men can do to help achieve equality?

I think a great tip for men would be to challenge yourself when making judgements of women. Reverse the gender of the person and consider whether it would change your thinking.

Little things can make all of the difference such as stepping in if a female colleague is dismissed or interrupted in a meeting or stamping out sexist jokes and valuing that woman have good ideas too!

I am fortunate that I work with male colleagues who just get it and are overall supportive and encouraging of their female colleagues.

Do I feel heard – yes I do.

What do you think the energy industry can do to attract more women into it?

Continue to ensure there is a fair balance of opportunities for females at Board Level and indeed across the entire business with equal reward and promotion opportunities.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Have belief in your self-worth and stay true and authentic to who you are. You don’t have to shout the loudest to be heard if you surround yourself by those that are prepared to listen.