L-R: Alex Haddow, head of people at SGS College, Kelly Gillett, director of people and organisational culture, Kristal McNamara, director of Bristol Women in Business Charter and David Withey, CEO and pricinipal at SGS College
SGS College in Filton has expressed its pride after joining a regional charter aimed at improving workplace opportunities for women, becoming the latest education provider to sign up alongside three other major institutions.
The college joins the University of Bristol, the University of the West of England and City of Bristol College as signatories of the Bristol Women in Business Charter. Between them, the four institutions represent nearly 100,000 students and almost 15,000 employees.
The move comes as the charter launches a new five‐year strategy and begins expanding its reach beyond Bristol into the wider region. It now supports organisations employing more than 50,000 people across the area — more than 20 per cent of the regional workforce.
David Withey, CEO and principal at SGS College, said: “At SGS College, we are proud to join the Women in Business Charter, reaffirming our commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace, and celebrating that we employ a 63 per cent female workforce.
“Promoting gender equality is particularly important in education, where we shape future leaders and role models.
“By supporting women’s progression and leadership, we aim to inspire our staff and students alike, ensuring equal opportunities for all.”
Kristal McNamara, director of the charter, said: “By strengthening these connections, the xharter team can better engage young women earlier, support smoother transitions from education into employment, and help them not only enter organisations but thrive once they are there.
“This is particularly important for the most marginalised young women in Bristol and beyond, who continue to face the greatest structural barriers to opportunity. SGS joining marks the start of our regional expansion and a widening of our impact.”