Kate Wood is determined that regardless of gender, sex, race, ethnic origin, faith, marital status, ability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, life experience, social and educational background everybody has the power to reach their potential at work.

Her story is one of both personal change and of workplace transformation…

As someone who was almost expelled from school aged 15, thrown out of home aged 16, pregnant as a teenager, had 2 children in 12 months and worked as a waitress living off tips for many years never ever dreaming of a career.

She went on to become Culture Director for IT Company Chess, where she galvanised them achieve 1st in the UK Sunday Times Top 100 companies to work for list.  Kate now works freelance to improve culture for companies, ensuring teams feel valued and cared for whilst improving business performance.

Continually driving the Women in Technology agenda, Kate sits on the Women in Tech Network Board, WIT North Board and CRN Advisory Board.

A volunteer with Open Kitchen Manchester and Oxfam Originals, Kate also runs a litter picking group called Keeping Salford Smart, is obsessed with Desert Island Discs and strongly believe all dresses should have pockets. A passionate and entertaining public speaker she promises you will leave the session armed, inspired and empowered to be that little bit braver.