Avon UK has named Sara Davies MBE, renowned entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den investor, as its new Chief Inspiration Officer.
The appointment aims to bolster efforts to help more women launch and grow their own businesses.
Tackling barriers to women’s entrepreneurship
Avon’s recent research reveals that nearly a third of British women face significant obstacles when starting their own businesses, including difficulties accessing finance, uncertainty about where to begin, and a lack of confidence. The study highlights that 33% of women feel the business landscape favours men, and 23% believe they have fewer opportunities compared to their male counterparts.
As Chief Inspiration Officer, Davies will host masterclasses and mentoring sessions to provide Avon Representatives (Reps) with the guidance and support needed to overcome these challenges. Her role is set to inspire and equip women to run their businesses effectively and confidently.
Davies’ mission
Sara expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am thrilled to join Avon UK as its first Chief Inspiration Officer and to work with both budding and existing Avon Reps who have the hunger to build and run their own business, on their own terms. The research certainly chimes with many of the barriers I came up against when starting up my own business, and I know they persist today and can seem insurmountable.”
Sara’s top tips for budding entrepreneurs include:Have a plan: Set clear goals and write them down to stay accountable.Do your research: Connect with brands that align with your values.Build a personal brand: Let customers buy into you, not just your products.Use your support network: Seek advice and celebrate your successes.Lead from the front: Consistency is key in inspiring and motivating your team.Tailor your leadership style: Listen to your team’s needs and celebrate their achievements.
Avon’s continued commitment to women’s empowerment
For over 137 years, Avon has championed positive change for women, providing tools and resources to help them build successful businesses. Avon Reps enjoy the flexibility to earn on their own terms, with opportunities to become Leaders, recruiting and supporting their own teams.
Tracey Powers, UK Sales Director at Avon, remarked, “We need to do more to help women overcome the barriers they often face when setting out to start their own business and embracing a working pattern which works for them. Avon’s business model enables Reps to have greater choice, flexibility, and freedom to take control of their finances and realise their potential.”
Sara Davies, who founded Crafter’s Companion and became the youngest female investor on Dragons’ Den, is passionate about supporting women in business. Her involvement with Avon has already led to an 18% growth in sales for Reps attending her masterclasses, demonstrating her positive impact.
Reflecting on her journey, Sara added, “The world of work has changed. The rigid 9-5, which is notoriously difficult for mums, has been replaced by more flexible work and being an Avon Rep offers women the option to put the hours in whenever suits them. The country is filled with women from all walks of life with entrepreneurial flair and potential, so unlocking this would pay dividends for the economy and give it a much-needed boost.”
