Women in Security, Policing & Defence

Despite a steady rise in the number of women in security, policing and defence over the past decade, the number of women in senior leadership ranks remains low. There is certainly some way to go to achieve gender-balanced leadership teams that are truly representative of the populations they serve.

Women in Security, Policing and Defence seeks to provide current and future leaders with the skills needed to correct this imbalance. The unique conference explores the role of women in security, policing and defence offers practical advice and coaching on how to further develop your career in times of change. We will discuss together how we can manage the challenges of modern leadership and help ensure we don't lose momentum in recognising and rewarding female leaders in security, policing and defence.

Why attend?

Examine the barriers currently facing female leaders (and future leaders) in security, policing and defence and hear how to overcome them

Understand when and how gender plays a role in both organisational and personal advancement

Learn how successful women negotiate for what they need to be effective leaders

Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and attributes needed to be a successful leader

Raise the visibility of women as senior leaders in security, policing and defence

 Create a lasting network of women leaders across the sector who are effecting change in security, policing and defence

09:30

Chair's Introduction & Opening Remarks: 

Women in security, policing and defence sector: exploring the landscape

• Understanding why women are underrepresented in senior positions
• Exploring the cultural and practical obstacles to career progression leadership

10:00

Positioning yourself as a leader: a practical toolkit

• Developing and maintaining a growth mindset amidst challenges or adversity 
• Pitching your skills and putting yourself forward 
• Identifying your unique skills and priorities to build a personal brand 
• Honing networking skills to identify potential mentors, allies and support

10:45

Comfort break

11:15

Exploring the confidence conundrum: the power of knowing and demonstrating your worth

• The confidence gap: reframing perceptions of capability
• Acknowledging strengths and achievements to maintain a positive internal dialogue
• Leveraging your strengths and tapping into the right resources
• Defining your career goals and visualising success
• Finding the courage to lead authentically

12:00

Session tbc  

13:00

Break for lunch

14:00

Keynote Address:
A personal reflection on my leadership journey 

Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and attributes needed to be a successful leader from an inspirational senior leader 

14:30

Panel Discussion:  
Resilience in Action: key lessons to take forward during challenging times

• Develop a ‘what if’ mindset to better handle unexpected events
• Managing and maintaining resilience through the planning, acute response and post-crisis stages
• Asking for what you need, at home and at work  
• Maintaining confidence in your abilities and worth during difficult times 

15:15

Leading a Change in Culture: Where do we go from here?  

• Raising the visibility of women as senior leaders in security, policing and defence
• Leadership for all: challenging traditional leadership paths and behaviours
• The importance lifting others as you climb 

15:45

Chair's Closing Remarks

16:00

Conference Close