Since 2006 I've been the Head of Insight and Innovation at WSFF which means that I have overall responsibility for the research we conduct and commission. We use this knowledge to develop solutions and ideas for how to get more women and girls' active.
What has your career involved before WSFF?
I started as a research graduate in a Market Research Agency, and moved to Which? Magazine where I worked across both research and editorial.
If you could change only one thing to have a positive impact on women and girls' activity levels, what would it be?
I'd ensure that all the broadcasters and national newspapers dedicate half of their sports coverage to women's sport. The lack of women role models (especially within team sports) is really having an impact. I’m looking forward to seeing if this changes with the launch of the Women’s Super League in the summer.
How does being active make you feel?
Exercise is something I never regret. It’s funny that you can talk yourself out of going to the gym – but you never feel worse for going. I enjoy being part of a team and experiencing the wins and defeats with a bunch of great mates. I do find it hard to find the time to squeeze in regular exercise when I’ve got loads of things going on in my life. But I use the feel good factor after you exercise to motive me. Plus meeting up with running mates is a great way to keep in touch (a little healthier than meeting at the pub!).
Favourite sport or physical activity
I'm a complete sport geek. I'll watch anything and everything, but football is my first love. I’m also playing a bit of squash in a North London league. It’s great fun belting that ball around!
Most memorable sporting moment.
I went to Cape Town to watch the South Africa v England test matches this Christmas. It was amazing – the combination of the stunning setting, the weather – and the result as it went down to the last ball.
Who do you admire and why?
Hope Powell. She’s an exceptional role model for women’s sport. Hope commands respect at the highest coaching level and I’m counting down the days until she gets the opportunity to coach a men’s professional side.
