Not enough women work in STEM

If you’ve ever applied for a bank account or a credit card, chances are you’ll have heard of Experian. The data company prides itself on encouraging the public to become more aware of their personal data, to take control of it, and to learn how to use it for good. As an employer, diversity is very important to them. Lisa Fretwell, Managing Director Data Services at Experian, believes it fosters innovation and that Experian “does good with data” by “bringing together diverse mindsets, experiences and styles.” She also feels that “we need more women in the mix!” Experian have devised five ways of working that they call ‘The Experian Way’. These are to:

• Delight customers
• Innovate to grow
• Collaborate to win
• Safeguard our future
• Value each other

When you look at them in detail, it’s easy to see that what the company is looking for in its existing staff and new hires is a combination of excellent customer service, personal development, teamwork and collaboration, combined with a future proofing mentality and a desire to build and maintain a healthy workplace culture. Sophie Burke, a Talent Acquisition Manager who has worked for the company for five years, says “it’s rare to work for a large global business that balances high performing culture with enabling everyone to be their true self both inside & outside of work.” She believes that Experian’s flexible working policies and support groups enable this. “The company has LGBTQ+, early careers, and working families networks, amongst others, and these networks enable employees to get the support they need and network with like-minded people. I believe this is also why we have recently been awarded as a top 10 employer in the UK for ‘Working Families’.”

Women and STEM at Experian

STEM has a reputation for being a male dominated industry and statistics continue to back this up. The website for this year’s Women in Data UK, the UK’s largest female data professional event, which is due to take place later this month, quotes a figure of “four male analysts and scientists to one”, whereas this site for STEM graduates says that “13% of the overall UK STEM workforce are women” and that, subsequently, there are a lack of female role models for young women looking to pursue a career in this field. Experian would like to help change this, that’s why they are so thrilled to be supporting Women in Data UK 2019 as Gold sponsors. On the day, Experian’s Louise Maynard-Atem will be delivering a keynote speech and the company will also be a main exhibitor showcasing their data and technology credential, as well as exciting career opportunities. Louise Maynard-Atem is passionate about innovation and gender equality “In the short term we need to keep shining a light on all of the great work that women are doing in technology, but the ideal end state is a time when women being equally as successful as men in every sector isn’t newsworthy, it’s just the norm!”

Eleanor Gann Orebi, Experian’s Director of Corporate Affairs, also values the event “To have a chance to hear from women who are making such phenomenal steps in their careers is inspirational, motivating and encouraging. That’s why Experian’s involvement with Women in Data is so important.” “Gender equality in STEM is crucial, especially at Experian.” says Jane Avison, a Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, who has worked at Experian for five years. “We need positive female role models in STEM and diversity of thinking is key to providing different perspectives. There should not be a shortage of inspirational role models for girls dreaming of a career in science or technology. STEM roles are already niche with tough problems to solve, and we should not expect females to also have to overcome societal or professional obstacles in order to succeed.” She explains that “a greater gender parity would enhance our culture – gender is just one piece of the puzzle, but by embracing employees from a wealth of different backgrounds, cultures, genders or ethnicities, we foster a culture of true inclusion. Employees who feel included and part of a diverse workforce are more productive, more engaged and are happier. Wellbeing is huge on our agenda and gender parity plays a part in this.” The Women in Data UK event takes place at London’s Arora, Intercontinental Hotel, at the O2 on 28^th November. It’s free to attend and you can find out more here. Find out more information on careers at Experian and to apply for roles here. To see life inside Experian Globally, follow Experian on Instagram @ExperianJobs