Janet Webb - International Women's Day Feature

This IWD we're celebrating some of the female leaders, founders and entrepreneurs in our Chamber. In this feature we talked to Janet Webb of Janet Webb Consulting

1.    How did you get to where you are today?

Like most people working in HR and L&D, I fell into it. But I fell into it because I grabbed opportunities when they came my way. Those opportunities included management responsibility in Selfridges, The NHS and East Sussex County Council. I also ran some pretty heavy projects at ESCC, in a wide range of departments. So when I was made redundant in 2026 it seemed natural to grab the chance to go it alone and support businesses with their staff development and projects.

2. What would you tell your younger self?

Life is going to throw all sorts of junk at you – some of it awful. But the good stuff is going to be utterly brilliant, beyond what you can imagine. You will be surprised and what you can achieve. So, take a deep breath, be straightforward with people, notice who is in your tribe and cherish the moments of joy. It’s a roller coaster – you can scream with fear or scream with excitement; it’s your choice.

3. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Build your network, say yes to things when they come along (even if they are completely out of left field) and never stop being curious and learning. These things will give you a solid foundation and poise from which to excel in whatever you do. And don’t worry about other people being aggressive or putting you down. That stuff belongs to them; don’t waste your time trying to deal with it. Just be polite and respectful, step up and over and forward on to greater things.

www.janetwebbconsulting.co.uk

You can find out more here about this year's International Women's Day agenda - Rights. Justice, Action. For ALL Women and Girls.