Avon UK has announced the appointment of Sarah Davies MBE, renowned entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den investor, as its new Head of Inspiration.
This appointment aims to strengthen efforts to help more women launch and grow their own businesses.
Addressing Barriers to Women’s Entrepreneurship
Recent research by Avon reveals that nearly a third of British women face significant barriers when starting their own business, including difficulties accessing finance, uncertainty about where to start 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 than their male counterparts.
As Chief Inspiration Officer, Davies will host training sessions and mentoring sessions to provide Avon representatives with the guidance and support they need to overcome these challenges. Her role is set to inspire women and equip them with the skills they need to run their businesses effectively and confidently.
Davis’s mission
Sarah expressed her excitement about the role, saying: “I’m thrilled to be joining Avon UK as its first female Chief Inspiration Officer and working with existing and emerging Avon Representatives who have the desire to build and run their own business, on their own terms. The research certainly resonates with many of the barriers I faced when starting my own business, which I know still exist today and can seem insurmountable.”
Sarah’s top tips for budding entrepreneurs include:
We have a plan.Set clear goals and write them down so you can be held accountable.
Do your research.Connect with brands that align with your values.
Building a personal brandLet customers buy your products, not just your products.
Use your support networkAsk for advice and celebrate your successes.
Leading from the frontConsistency is the key to inspiring and motivating your team.
Design your leadership styleListen to your team’s needs and celebrate their accomplishments.
Avon’s ongoing commitment to empowering women
For over 137 years, Avon has been empowering positive change for women, providing tools and resources to help them build successful businesses. Avon Representatives have the flexibility to earn on their own terms, with opportunities to become leaders, hire and support their own teams.
“We need to do more to help women overcome the barriers they often face when starting their own businesses and adopt a working style that suits them,” said Tracey Powers, UK Sales Director at Avon. “Avon’s business model gives representatives greater choice, flexibility and the freedom to take control of their finances and realise their potential.”
Sarah Davies, who founded Crafter’s Companion and became the youngest investor in Dragons’ Den, is passionate about supporting women in business. Her partnership with Avon has already led to an 18% increase in sales for salespeople who attend her masterclasses, demonstrating the positive impact she is having.
Speaking about her journey, Sarah added: “The world of work has changed. The rigid 9-5 routine, which is very difficult for mothers, has been replaced by a more flexible working routine, and working as an Avon representative gives women the option to work longer hours at a time that suits them. The country is full of women from all walks of life who have the potential to be entrepreneurs, so unleashing this potential will benefit the economy and give it a much-needed boost.”