With its BoardAble programme and seminars Pink Shoe does its bit to encourage more women
and under-represented groups to consider a Ministerial Public Appointment. The latest Seminar was well attended and a great session led by Helene Martin Gee and Vanda Green.
First, Katharine Purser Head of the Centre for Public Appointments at the Cabinet Office outlined the wide range of appointments available and shared with delegates the application process from start to finish and how the final decision is made by the Minsiter from a shortlist of ‘appointable candidates’.
Katharine also encouraged delegates to sign up for the regular Public Appointments Newsletter which outlines latest roles.
We then heard from BoardAble Patron Sarah Anderson CBE, who has wide experience of chairing Appointments Panels. Sarah advised us of the vital importance of the supporting statement and summarised the points to cover.
Giving an insight into the difference between the private and public sectors, Sarah advised delegates to persevere with applications; perhaps to start with roles such as School Governor and to think about the NHS who have a range of regional posts.
After Q&A Vanda Green led an interactive session with delegates who then enjoyed refreshments and networking to round off the event.
The next step is the full BoardAble programme which begins in March. Delegates were welcomed to apply for the course, which mirrors the application process of a Public Appointment. The programme is aimed at senior women and diverse candidates. It includes professional seminars and a unique one-to-one shadowing experience with a public appointee.