Insights
IWD 2024: Inspire Inclusion Series SFXV - Emma Bridgewater
I've long been inspired by a distinguished posse of powerful women who, in previous decades, broke through the prejudices which kept women back in the ceramics industry. I owe a great debt to women such as Charlotte Rhead, Clarice Cliff, Susie Cooper, Jessie Tait, Eve Midwinter and Susan Williams Ellis. I believe that, if not for them, I wouldn't have been able to envisage working in the industry.
I'm proud that today their example inspires me to support women across our business to forge ahead with the clear confidence that women can work in absolutely any role in our company, choosing the career paths that really interests them.
The motto of the suffragettes "Deeds not words" is also a powerful, resonating reminder to take action. We know from experience that adaptation is in the best possible sense empowering and enriching. Discrimination holds us all back from change and has taught us that wherever we fail to welcome and engage with the unfamiliar we are closing ourselves down to real shared change and growth.
Emma is the founder of the flagship ceramics company, Emma Bridgewater, that she set up in 1985 and now employs around 500 people. Her highly coveted handmade and hand-decorated pottery are all made in her factory in Stoke on Trent.
Emma Bridgewater pieces:
Meet the Stonehage Fleming XV - Emma Bridgewater
How an iconic British brand was built