The importance of flexibility in career progression

My career journey has been shaped by perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace challenges. From my early days as an RAF Air Cadet to a career in policing and now as a Managing Consultant at BMT, I have continuously sought opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to positive change.

From RAF Air Cadet to the Police Force

I started my career journey at 13 when I joined the RAF Air Cadets in 1985, as part of the first cohort of female cadets. I worked hard to make the most of the opportunities available, eventually becoming the first female Cadet Warrant Officer in my unit. During this time, I also achieved milestones such as the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and an international Air Cadet exchange to Canada. However, I soon realised that flying was not my passion and I shifted my focus.

At 18, I joined the Royal Air Force as a Communications Systems Analyst, but after some time, I felt a different path would suit me better. In 1995, I joined Nottinghamshire Police, one of the few female officers at the time. There were noticeable gender disparities - not just in numbers but also in uniform and equipment. Despite this, I committed myself to the role, working hard and learning as much as I could.

By 1998, I had transferred to Cambridgeshire Police, and in 2001, I became the only female in the county on the Roads Policing Unit. That same week, I discovered I was pregnant. Balancing a demanding full-time role with pregnancy and, later, motherhood was challenging, particularly in a work environment where few of my colleagues shared the same responsibilities. However, with determination and support, I was able to navigate this phase of my career while continuing to develop my skills.

Overcoming barriers as a woman in male-dominated industries

Throughout my career, I encountered challenges, some of which stemmed from gender biases. When I passed my Sergeant’s exams, I was initially overlooked for an acting position despite being the only qualified candidate. Instead, a junior colleague who had not sought promotion was selected due to my part-time status. While disappointing, this experience motivated me to keep working hard, and six months later, I was able to secure the promotion.

Balancing motherhood and a career required adjustments, including reducing my working hours. Though part-time work was sometimes viewed as a limitation, I remained committed and continued to pursue opportunities for development. Over time, I was able to progress, earning a BSc (Hons) in Leadership, Management, and Change.

A life-threatening illness in 2015 was another significant hurdle. While undergoing treatment, I was still able to pass my Inspectors exams and later secured another promotion. In 2019, I moved into Counter Terrorism Policing, leading diverse teams across multiple forces. My final promotion to Detective Chief Inspector saw me leading a regional team, where I focused on building relationships, fostering collaboration, and supporting those around me.

The importance of flexibility in career progression

Workplace flexibility has been a crucial factor in my ability to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments. After having my second child in 2004, I reduced my working hours due to childcare costs and the need for a sustainable work-life balance. Although this required some adjustments, I remained dedicated to my career, eventually progressing into leadership roles.

When I faced a serious illness in 2015, workplace flexibility allowed me to manage my health while continuing to contribute professionally. Later, during my time in Counter Terrorism Policing, flexible working arrangements were essential, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling both safety and operational effectiveness.

Flexibility has allowed me to maintain a fulfilling career while also being present for my family. I have seen first-hand the benefits of flexible working arrangements in supporting individuals to thrive in both their professional and personal lives.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the opportunity to support others. By mentoring colleagues and advocating for flexible working, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive work environment where individuals are valued for their abilities and contributions.

Final thoughts: encouraging others to keep moving forward

Retiring from policing in July 2023 and transitioning into a corporate role with BMT has been a new and exciting chapter. I have embraced a different professional environment, bringing my experience to new challenges and opportunities.

As a Managing Consultant within the Management Consultancy capability, I have now worked with Government customers outside of policing. Some of them use compressed or reduced hours, which hasn’t hindered their ability to perform at a high level. In fact, they build great working relationships with us, showing that flexibility and success go hand in hand.

I’ve noticed that while there are some cultural parallels between my time in policing and at BMT, such as organisational size and management style, BMT stands out for its adaptability. The organisation is far more open to flexible working, offering part-time roles, reduced hours, and agile working that fits around individual needs.

What’s really inspiring is seeing women thrive in management consultancy and beyond, with representation across every level of the business. For younger employees, this balance and representation is just the norm now, showing how far we’ve come. The workplace culture here supports people’s needs while making sure customers get great service, proving that success is driven by talent and effort rather than rigid structures.

To anyone navigating their own career journey, I’d say: stay persistent, be adaptable, and believe in your abilities. There will always be challenges, but with the right mindset and support, progress is always possible. Small changes can make a big difference, and together, we can keep moving towards a more inclusive, flexible, and supportive workplace for everyone.

At home, my husband and I have shared childcare and household responsibilities equally, providing our children with a balanced perspective on work and family life. I believe that breaking down barriers in the workplace is not just about personal success but about creating opportunities for future generations.