“It is said that since 1911 IWD ‘belongs to all who care about women’s equality, celebrate achievement, raise awareness about discrimination …’ etc.  so, for my part, I’d like to share a few moments to CELEBRATE the achievements of a few key women of influence in my life.“

Over 41 years in legal practice, I’ve seen considerable and positive change for women in business.  From age 17 where I started as office junior to age 58 as a practising Solicitor and Director, I’ve experienced a roller coaster journey in Law which, for me, is now unrecognisable from my early days.  

International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025 focusses on ‘the need to Accelerate Action to address systemic barriers and biases women face in personal and professional spheres’.  I’m perhaps amongst a few women in business who are incredibly blessed to be working in environments which have already run a high-speed marathon to provide a creative and encouraging space to flourish, a place where skills, values, thinking and standing as a woman, are highly regarded.  

It is said that since 1911 IWD ‘belongs to all who care about women’s equality, celebrate achievement, raise awareness about discrimination …’ etc. so, for my part, I’d like to share a few moments to CELEBRATE the achievements of a few key women of influence in my life.  

When I had the pleasure of joining Gateley Legal in 2000 as a newly qualified mature solicitor, I could not have been better served than the time spent with Rebecca Sherwin who is now Partner and Head of Real Estate at Gateley.  Rebecca was truly a champion in training, supporting, encouraging and underpinning excellence in the workplace.  Her kindness and compassion provided a stable place to learn, grow, make mistakes and soldier on. I’ve never publicly had the opportunity to thank Bexx for her support to me as a young solicitor and exceptional advice and friendship she’s given over so many years.  So - thank you Bexx - for your service and friendship to me and so many women in business.  

In 1982 when I was 16/17 years, the male senior partner called me ‘girl’. I often heard ‘get the girl to make me a brew, send the girl to get the post, ask the girl to pick up the partners fish and chips ….’  The partners at that time were all male and I think it unlikely that many local firms had women partners or directors.  Fast forward to 2011 when I was the second woman to join the 4 male board members at Nowell Meller and have the privilege of working alongside Jane Matthewman.  There isn’t very much that we haven’t experienced in business together over the past 15 years. True character always shines brightly in the darkest of times, and through many difficult seasons Jane has remained steadfast, loyal, creative, consistent, determined, honest and just one of a kind.   If we were to celebrate all that’s great in any person, male or female, Jane has qualities which have guided us through many stormy seas without losing her humour, kindness, or empathy.  Jane, thank you for all you’ve shown to all the women at NM to inspire them in their journey and all that is to come. 

I feel rest assured that the culture established step by step over so many years at NM allows women to thrive and sets the scene for an exciting future ahead.  This is so well represented by my fellow (much younger!) director Carly Colclough who spins so many plates whilst remaining calm, thoughtful, creative, dynamic and passionate about team welfare and giving every person opportunity to find their place to flourish.  I hope it’s a testament to the journey Jane and I have taken over so many decades in legal practice, that Carly and others feel inspired to continue that journey in their own unique way.  Carly, I am so grateful for the day we met and how you have given so much to continue a legacy of inspiring others.      

I wonder if there is ever a better way to celebrate success than to be joyful for someone else, to be grateful for all you may have achieved but to be more delighted to see the next generation stand a bit taller on your shoulders.  I certainly would not be the person I am today without inspiring, encouraging, and supportive women of all generations around me.

I feel a sense of responsibility in finishing this piece; to thank all the gents I’ve met throughout my career who have seen and encouraged potential, listened with an open mind to my perspective and helped find solutions in a positive and constructive way.  I’m not sure there is anything better than men and women meeting with respect and unity around a business table.   So, to my wonderful fellow directors Steve and Adam, thank you for always supporting the NM ladies and providing the very best environment to work in.  You are both so talented and it’s an honour to work with both of you.

Last, but by no means least, can I add what a privilege it is to work with so many women in business who are clients of the firm or external professionals.  You are an absolute pleasure to support and walk alongside and I hope you celebrate on 8 March, and every day, who you are and all you bring to those around you day by day.

Author: Debby Hackney