International Women’s Day 2019: Motorpoint Arena Nottingham champions gender parity in workplace

To mark this year’s International Women’s Day, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham and National Ice Centre is highlighting and celebrating the great achievements of the many women working in key roles in and around the venue.

Despite it being a predominantly male-dominated industry, the company is bucking the trend and currently employs a larger proportion of women in its workforce across a range of departments – with 660 on the payroll versus 456 men.

From ticketing and sales, to events and operations, the business, located in the heart of Nottingham, champions gender equality in the fast-paced world of arenas and live venues.

The six-strong senior management team at the venue includes three leading ladies, all of whom lead varying departments and teams that are integral to the running of the business.

Sharon Lordan, Marketing and Sales Director at the venue, has had a career within the industry for over 20 years, after previously working at Manchester United Football Club in their marketing department.

The experienced marketeer says: “The live entertainment and sports industries are usually very male-dominated. We are changing this pattern at the venue and are highlighting the positive work that is undertaken by the women in our workforce. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do, and to such a high standard, without them.

“No matter the role, department or industry, I would always encourage women to not be afraid of getting out there and achieving their goals. It’s great to see so many accomplished women succeeding in their positions, which is why it’s important to celebrate and highlight their achievements not only on International Women’s Day, but each and every day.”

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, paying tribute to women’s achievements around the world and the ongoing fight for equality. This year’s theme is #BalanceforBetter; a call to action for accelerating gender balance in business, politics, media coverage and wealth.

Operations Supervisor at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham and the National Ice Centre, Kaylie Bickle, believes it’s vital for companies to champion gender equality. She says: “By doing this, we are encouraging the whole gender spectrum to work harmoniously and freely, producing a tenacious and passionate team of equal counterparts.

“Here at the Arena, there are numerous talented and influential women who are integral to the company, whom I feel lucky to learn from daily. I feel privileged to be a woman within the operational management team as there is no limit to what anyone can accomplish, regardless of gender.”

Colleague Hannah Storm joined the Arena as a steward while studying at university in 2016 but has since worked her way up the ranks and is now in the role of Event Manager. She says: “Companies should champion the work both men and women achieve, not because of their gender but because of their hard work and commitment to the job. Throughout the Arena, there is an equal balance at all levels of gender.”