As we celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March, we are proud to reflect on the incredible contribution of women across Kersia UK and highlight the work underway to support their development, growth and success.
This year, the global International Women’s Day theme is Give to Gain; a message that focuses on the power of supporting others, sharing experiences and lifting people up so we can all move forward together.
At Kersia, this aligns seamlessly with our own message for 2026:
Stronger Together: embracing belonging, empowering success
Together, these two themes capture the heart of our culture; that when we give our time, our support, our mentorship and our shared learning, we create space for everyone to thrive.
A Meaningful Start to 2026: Our Meat Business Women Development Event
In February, we were delighted to host an inspiring development session as part of Kersia’s new global partnership with Meat Business Women (MBW) — an organisation dedicated to accelerating the careers of women across the meat and food industry.
The event brought together more than 20 colleagues from across the UK for a day centred on mentoring, communication and career progression. Led by MBW Managing Director Joanne Parnell, the session created a supportive, practical and energising space where colleagues could share experiences, explore opportunities and strengthen their professional networks.
Connecting Partnership to Purpose
The day opened with Katrin Turvey, who highlighted how the MBW partnership aligns with Kersia’s wider growth strategy. By investing in women’s development, we are not only supporting individuals, we are strengthening our future capability, building more diverse teams and reinforcing our commitment to promoting a culture of belonging.
This partnership reflects our belief that when people feel valued and supported, they achieve more, and so do we as a business.
Leadership That Drives Progress
Our Managing Director, Andrew Downie, also joined the session, sharing his reflections on values, purpose and ambition. Andrew spoke about the power of aligning personal and professional goals, and how clarity of direction creates momentum; both for individuals and for the organisation.
His leadership continues to be central to our DEI journey in the UK, championing the idea that real progress comes when we lift each other, support growth and create space for people to thrive.
Career Stories That Inspire
Building on the theme of shared ambition, Cath Chapman spoke openly about her own career path to a global key account role. She emphasised the importance of building strong relationships and having genuine passion for your work; two qualities she believes have shaped her development and success.
Paula Capaldi also reflected on recognising opportunities and the invaluable support mentors provided throughout her journey. Her message of “leaving the ladder down” resonated across the room, reminding us how important it is to support and elevate others as we progress.
Turning Ambition into Action
Throughout the day, ambition emerged as a central theme; what it means in practice, how to nurture it, and how to turn it into sustained growth. Conversations were open, honest and energising, covering topics such as learning, balancing priorities, embracing challenges and building confidence.
The core advice shared was simple but powerful:
✨ Stay curious
✨ Build strong relationships
✨ Take opportunities when they come
These messages echo the spirit of our International Women’s Day theme and reinforce the behaviours that help individuals—and teams—thrive.
Celebrating the Women of Kersia UK
This International Women’s Day, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many women across our business; in commercial, technical, operational and leadership roles; who strengthen Kersia every day with their expertise, resilience and perspective.
Their contribution is essential to our success, and their influence helps shape the inclusive, forward‑thinking culture we are proud to build.
Stronger Together: embracing belonging, empowering success
As we look ahead, our commitment remains the same: to create opportunities, remove barriers, and build a workplace where everyone feels seen, supported and able to succeed.
Because when we champion each other, when we create belonging, and when we recognise the strength of our shared ambition…
We are stronger together.
