#IWD2024 celebrating venYou’s female-led companies: Shauna Burns, Beyond Business Travel

To celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, we’re showcasing some of venYou’s female-led companies, and those who are trailblazing and making waves across various sectors.

First up in our series is Managing Director of corporate travel management company, Beyond Business Travel, Shauna Burns, who tells us her top tips for building a successful career, and who her greatest female role model is!

Can you give us a bit of background on your journey to becoming a MD?

My journey to becoming the Managing Director of Beyond Business Travel has been a testament to breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, I was inspired to pursue a career in business from an early age. Despite facing challenges and stereotypes along the way, I remained determined to carve out my path in the industry. My diverse experiences, from working internationally with KPMG to navigating the corporate world at Ulster Bank, have shaped my leadership style and commitment to inclusivity. As a female business leader, I am proud to represent inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.

 The theme of IWD 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. What does inclusion in the workplace look like to you?

Inclusion in the workplace, to me, is about creating an environment where every individual's voice is heard and valued, regardless of their background or identity. It's about fostering a culture where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but actively sought out and integrated into the decision-making processes. At Beyond Business Travel, we actively encourage everyone to have a voice and ensure they feel they are an important part of the business.

Can you share a personal experience where you felt the impact of inclusion, or lack thereof, on your journey as a woman in your field?

As a woman in the business world, I've encountered various experiences that have shaped my perspective on the importance of inclusion. This led to running and leading initiatives while working at Ulster Bank, to encourage and promote female entrepreneurs while also fostering diversity and inclusion within the organisation itself.  I was honoured to receive the Women in Business Award for Best in Professional Services for this work. 

What role does mentorship play in promoting diversity and inclusion within your organisation?

Mentorship plays a pivotal role in promoting diversity and inclusion within Beyond Business Travel. We have implemented a mentorship program where all new recruits, regardless of gender, are assigned a buddy to help train and assist them in embedding themselves within the organisation. This buddy system ensures that new employees feel supported from day one and have access to guidance and resources to navigate their roles effectively. By pairing mentors of various backgrounds and experiences with new recruits, we not only facilitate knowledge sharing and skills development, but also foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration across the organisation.

 How can businesses foster a more inclusive environment that empowers and uplifts women to achieve their full potential?

Businesses can foster a more inclusive environment by addressing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect women, such as childcare responsibilities. Providing comprehensive childcare support, including flexible working arrangements, onsite childcare facilities, or childcare subsidies, can significantly alleviate the burden on working mothers and enable them to fully participate and thrive in the workplace. Additionally, implementing family-friendly policies, such as parental leave and remote work options, can further support women in balancing their professional and personal responsibilities. By recognising and accommodating the diverse needs of female employees, businesses can create an inclusive environment that empowers and uplifts women to achieve their full potential.

 Do you have any advice for women who may be beginning or looking to take the next step in their career?

My advice for women beginning or advancing in their careers is multifaceted. Firstly, seize every opportunity that comes your way, as you never know where it may lead. Confidence in your abilities is key; believe in yourself and your potential to achieve your goals. Additionally, actively network and cultivate professional relationships, as connections often play a crucial role in career advancement. Remember to both build and work your network continuously, as maintaining connections can open doors to new opportunities and support your career growth journey.

Who is your greatest female role model and why?

I have many role models, but one strong female role model is Michelle Obama. She embodies grace, intelligence, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on society. As the first African American First Lady of the United States, she used her platform to advocate for important causes such as education, health and wellness, and women's rights. Michelle Obama's journey from growing up in a working-class family to attending prestigious universities and becoming a global icon is a testament to her determination and ability to inspire change. She serves as a shining example of how one person can make a profound difference in the world through compassion, empathy, and advocacy.