How To Raise The Next Generation Of Businesswomen | International Women’s Day 2020

In the hope of moulding the future generation of businesswomen, Charlotte shares what it is like to return to work after maternity leave, how to achieve that ever elusive work/life balance and how she inspires her daughter Liliana to always aim high. As our CEO William’s wife, Charlotte it at the heart of Maxwell-Scott as she has helped to grow the business after a successful early career in the media industry. She now works as our Customer Service Manager and lives in York with William and their two children.

Charlotte, can you describe the trajectory of your career so far?

I had quite a fast paced career in the media industry in my 20’s and enjoyed this thoroughly. When I met my husband William though, Maxwell-Scott was in its early years and I was ready for a new challenge. I decided to join William on the Maxwell-Scott journey and it has been an incredible experience to learn this whole new career from the bottom up – safe to say I have learnt a tremendous amount along the way.

After so many years of selling at shows and then moving the brand with William to York, I feel like we have accomplished so much together. It’s also been great to be able to achieve a work life balance as a couple. I felt extremely lucky to return to a business that I love, live and breathe after maternity leave. And whilst work is still a big priority for me, at the end of the day the children and family are now always first and foremost. After all, sometimes children can be your toughest critics.

What has been your biggest career highlight?

In my previous career, I was selected as one of Media Week’s 30 Under 30 to watch in the future which was very exciting. So that was certainly a career highlight, alongside winning some other industry awards for my and my team’s work.

In my current role at Maxwell-Scott, it was definitely our being shortlisted several years in a row for the Drapers’ Accessories Brand of the Year as well as this year winning the York Press’ Exporter of the Year award. We’ve had a lovely time celebrating those moments.

And what are the biggest challenges you face day to day at work, and how do you tackle them?

The biggest challenge? Being organised and getting everything done in the time available to me. Too much to do too little time as the old adage goes always seems to ring true. I think the key then is to stay focused and I have had to learn that, even though it is possible to say ‘Yes’ to everything, not everything has to have the answer ‘Yes I’ll do it right now!’. To manage this I break everything up into little manageable chunks and try not to allow myself to be sidetracked by other tasks.

What were some of the biggest difficulties of returning to work after children?

Mainly juggling the need and desire to work with childcare, as well as battling a big dose of the inevitable mum guilt! Whilst it’s so exciting to be part of the workforce again, it takes a while to get your mojo and confidence back. That said, now I feel like I’ve never left and it’s easier to have the work/home life balance now that the children are that little bit older.

With this experience, what’s the best way to balance a career with two young children?

It’s hard when you first return, managing the home, children and working but eventually you find a way of making it work and a happy compromise. Just allow yourself to find your feet over time.

Did any women in your family inspire you as a child?

My grandmother is such an inspiration, 94 and still has that keep calm and carry on attitude. She’s also a very positive influence and constantly strives to help others before herself.

How important do you think it is to set an example in work for your daughter Liliana?

I think it is important that your children see you enjoy work and that it shouldn’t be seen as a chore that you have no choice over. Our children are very rounded in understanding that working hard can bring good things, but that you should have a good work/home life balance as well.

How do you cultivate interest and passion in Liliana?

She is a keen little girl who shows an interest in most things, in regards to my work though I involve her with anything that I might have to do from home. Plus, Maxwell-Scott has always been a part of her world with both William and I working there so she has already shown a key interest in the family business. In fact, she often sketches designs of handbags at home – you never know one day she might follow in our footsteps! In other areas she has a passion for gymnastics, judo, pottery and art. I always tell her that you don’t have to be the best at what you do, you just have to do the best you can at what you love.

What advice would you give Liliana about her future career?

Be true to yourself, be confident, be honest, do something you enjoy and never stop aiming high.

Lastly, what did you want to be when you were growing up?

A police officer!