Shropshire highflyers success revealed for International Women’s Day

Two of Shropshire’s high-flying young women are celebrating International Women’s Day (March 8) by revealing their secrets to success.

Charlotte Edwards, Managing Director of house building company, Dennis Edwards, and Frances Steer, the first female partner at Balfours land and property agents have both steered their careers in a predominantly male world.

Celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women Charlotte says: “Back yourself. Knowledge, confidence, and resilience will take you far—don’t wait for permission to have a voice at the table.” Charlotte’s sentiment is endorsed by Frances: “Be confident in your professional knowledge and training and do not feel intimidated to speak up and raise questions.  I have always taken the view that I should not try and be a honorary man but instead dress and act in a way true to myself.”

While they have each encountered unconscious bias, Frances says generally she has been lucky that she has always been treated with respect. Both have encountered situations where a male is present, also representing their company, has been assumed to be the senior decision maker, something which Frances has found amusing; while Charlotte has lost count of eyes turning to her colleague for final approval, rather than herself!

Advice on encountering such bias is to politely highlight the assumption in a humorous way and stay professional, let the quality of your work do the talking.

As for proudest moments, for Charlotte it was winning a National award for a luxury development, “but actually handing over keys to a happy new homeowner is equally rewarding,” Charlotte adds. Frances identifies becoming a female equity partner, at the age of 34 years, “I feel proud and thankful to my partners for recognising my potential,” she reflects.

When it comes to relaxing, they are on the same page – both embrace the countryside and most especially in their home county, where this weekend they will take time out walking, or running, while reflecting on International Women’s day and what can be achieved.

Pictured: Frances Steer, Equity Partner at Balfours LLP, and Charlotte Edwards, Managing Director of Dennis Edwards Homes