International Women’s Day: Celebrating Strength, Leadership and Impact at NWLP
Angela Jean‑François, Managing Director
Stepping into the role of Managing Director has reinforced to me just how essential women’s leadership is to the future of healthcare. When I began my career, the landscape looked very different, leadership roles in pathology were overwhelmingly held by men. Over the years, I’ve seen encouraging progress, with more women holding senior positions across pathology and the wider NHS.
In my role at NWLP, I see daily the value women bring to leadership: collaboration, resilience, empathy and a deep sense of responsibility to patients and colleagues alike. My perspective has been shaped by the many women around me whose integrity and commitment strengthen our services and inspire how I lead.
This year on International Women’s Day (IWD), the theme ‘Give to Gain’ resonates deeply with me because it reflects something I’ve personally experienced throughout my career: when you invest in others, you grow alongside them. Mentoring, sharing experiences, making time for colleagues, and creating space for people to develop their strengths – these acts not only support others, but also strengthen your own leadership. Many of my most meaningful professional lessons have come from women whose generosity shaped my direction at pivotal moments.
I was honoured to receive Ally of the Year at the Ethnic Minorities in Leadership, Civil and Public Service Awards, which recognised work focused on creating more inclusive and supportive spaces for colleagues. For me, that award wasn’t just about individual achievement; it reflected the shared commitment across NWLP to champion equality and ensure everyone feels able to contribute fully.
In the early years of my career, the lack of women in leadership roles made those who were visible all the more impactful.
Dr. Margaret Zimowska, Clinical Scientist in Immunology believed in me during my first role as a registered Biomedical Scientist, supporting my development into a senior role. Chrisy Yates, a Biomedical Scientist in the field of Immunology was a role model who gave me the courage to apply for a role on the IBMS Specialist Advisory Panel which opened doors to support national training and education for Immunology BMS’s. Women like Saghar Missaghian-Cully, our previous Managing Director, who worked tirelessly to break down barriers, made it possible for others – including me – to step into opportunities that previously didn’t feel accessible. As I joined the IBMS council in 2021, Debra Padgett was stepping into the role of IBMS president as only the third female president in a line of 35 presidents; opening more doors as the following two presidents are also female.
These are only a few of many strong and capable women who have influenced me in my career, under pinning my belief in that ‘together we are stronger’.
Pathology thrives on diversity of thought, background, and experience. Having women represented at all levels ensures we reflect the workforce and the communities we serve.
At NWLP, we’ve seen a real shift in diversity over recent years. More women are stepping into scientific, operational and leadership roles, and that representation is helping reshape how decisions are made and how teams work together. When women see others like them leading, and it creates momentum and broadens the vision for what’s possible.
Ultimately, representation strengthens our service, supports better patient outcomes, and ensures leadership teams benefit from a wide range of perspectives.
My advice to girls and women considering a future in leadership and/or healthcare? Be curious, be open to opportunities, and don’t underestimate the value of your voice. Stick your head above the parapet and make sure your voice heard – it’s valuable. Pathology and healthcare offer incredibly rewarding careers, and there is space for you to grow, innovate, and lead.
Seek out mentors, especially women who inspire you, because their guidance can be transformative. Many of us have benefited from women who were willing to share not just their successes but the challenges they overcame along the way. And most importantly, trust that you belong in these spaces. Your perspective is needed, and your contributions matter.
NWLP has a culture that increasingly embraces open dialogue, inclusivity, and practical support for women at every stage of their careers. Our flexible approaches to childcare, maternity and paternity leave, and our commitment to supporting individuals balancing family and career are important foundations. Just as vital are the role models across the organisation who demonstrate every day what strong, collaborative leadership looks like.
Our Women’s Network also plays a key role in creating community, connection, and shared learning. It’s encouraging to see colleagues supporting one another so openly, and I’m proud of how these initiatives contribute to a workplace where women can thrive.