Sheila Flavell, the Chief Operating Officer of FDM Group, has been awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade was presented to her at the Scotland Women in Technology Awards.
The award recognises Flavell’s commitment to enhancing diversity in the IT sector and her innovative work with FDM Group. Her efforts have paved the way for many aspiring professionals, especially women, in the tech industry.
With over 26 years in the IT sector, Sheila Flavell has marked her territory as a visionary leader. She boasts vast experience spanning both public and private sectors internationally. Her pioneering approach in promoting diversity makes her a recognised figure in technology circles. Her commitment is evident in her efforts to make IT inclusive, opening opportunities for many.
FDM’s proactive stand on gender pay equality is notable. It was among the first in the UK to report its gender pay gap, revealing figures of 6% average and 0% median against a national median of 18%. This transparency and commitment resonate with Flavell’s broader vision for workplace equality.
Believing that ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’, Flavell mentors numerous women in IT. Her guidance helps them navigate career paths, inspiring a new wave of tech enthusiasts. Her influence is not confined to her organisation but spans the tech industry, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Her involvement in FDM’s flotation on AIM in 2005 and the subsequent management buy-out in 2010 highlights her business acumen. This transition paved the way for FDM’s listing on the FTSE Market in 2014, a testament to her strategic foresight.
Her work with FDM has been instrumental in setting these standards, with robust policies in place to ensure equality. These actions echo her core belief in fair opportunity, reinforcing the Group’s status as a leader in diversity.
Her excitement about the award reflects in her statement, “I’m absolutely delighted to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award. It’s a real honour.” Her words encapsulate her passion and commitment, inspiring many within and beyond the tech industry.
Looking ahead, Flavell envisions a tech sector thriving on diversity. She sees an industry where opportunities abound for all, particularly women. Her vision is of a world where gender is no barrier to success.
Flavell’s award is a testament to her life’s work in promoting diversity in IT. Her vision and dedication have set new standards, inspiring future tech leaders.
Through her leadership, she continues to champion a more inclusive and equitable tech industry, signalling a brighter future for all aspirants.