Cairns is joined on the Role Model List by Bina Mehta, Chair of KPMG UK; Deborah O’Neill, Partner, Head of UK and Ireland Digital, Oliver Wyman; Roni Savage, CEO & Founder, Jomas Engineering & Environmental; Sharon Thorne, Chair of the Deloitte Global Board of Directors; and Tamara Box, Managing Partner EME, Reed Smith.
The HERoes Women Role Model Lists, supported by Yahoo Finance, showcase business leaders who are championing women in business and driving change to increase gender diversity in the workplace. Representing multiple sectors and industries across the world, those on our HERoes Women Role Model lists have not only achieved success in their own careers but also broken down barriers for those that follow.
Speaking about the award, Cairns said, “I am incredibly honoured to have featured in the INvolve global Women’s Role Model List for the second year running.”
“But I am even more pleased to be able to draw attention to the importance of gender and broader diversity in business by doing so.”
“I am committed to ensuring all women have the same chance of success as their male counterparts and that the business world reaps the benefit of accessing the whole talent pool.”
“I know from my experience at Mastercard just how rewarding it can be to really invest in your brightest minds, irrespective of their gender or background.”
“Also, as the chair of the 30% Club, which campaigns for greater female representation at board and executive level, I am delighted the UK is on the path to parity at board level but there remains much more work to do if we’re ever to achieve gender balance at executive leadership level.”
“There are just eight female CEOs across the FTSE100 and women of colour remain woefully under-represented at every senior level.”
“That’s why the 30% Club has introduced race targets for our members, established a race equity group working with our established investor group and developed the Mission Include strand of our cross-company mentoring programme.”
Also featuring on the HERoes Top 100 Women Future Leaders List were a number of Rising Star and TechWomen100 alumni, including Nina Ma, who won a TechWomen100 Award in 2019; Aimee Sykes, who won a Rising Star Award in Education & Academia in 2019; Maya Welford, who won a Rising Star Award in HR & Recruitment in 2020; Eunice Zhu, who won a Rising Star Award in Banking & Capital Markets in 2021; and Sarah Chapman, who won a Rising Star Award in Technology in 2016.
October
13/10/2025 - 17/10/2025 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and in-person events. Focused on career growth, networking, and innovation, this event continues to champion equality and empower women in the tech industry.
WeAreTechWomen is proud to present the second annual UK Women in Tech Week, taking place from October 13th to 17th, once again aligning with Ada Lovelace Day. This nationwide initiative brings together a vibrant line-up of virtual and in-person events celebrating the impact of women across the tech industry.
In partnership with leading organisations and Women in Tech networks, the week will offer inspiring panels, practical workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. Through our website, attendees can easily book their spots for these events. Our master calendar for bookings will be released in the summer. Those who have registered their interest will receive priority booking.
Despite growing awareness, the sector still faces systemic challenges. Our upcoming Lovelace Report with Oliver Wyman has highlighted a number of issues around the broken systems that hinder the progression of women in the tech industry. Several reports over the past few years, including the Lovelace Report, cite that women are leaving the industry altogether. This talent drain is not only a loss of potential but is actively costing the UK economy billions of pounds each year.
With just 20% of the UK’s tech workforce made up of women—and with government commitments to scale the AI workforce—this is not the time to slow down. It’s time to step up.
For more information visit: women-in-tech-week.com
01nov09:0016:30KIN: Know. Inspire. Navigate | A Day for Women to Realign, Renew, and Rise
01/11/2025 09:00 - 16:30(GMT+00:00)
Henley Business School, Greenlands
Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3AU
Set on the tranquil banks of the River Thames, Henley’s historic Greenlands campus offers the perfect backdrop for a day of reflection, connection, and
Designed for early to mid-career women across industries who want practical tools they can use immediately, this one-day retreat follows the Kinspace KIN framework – Know, Inspire, Navigate – guiding you to:
This is not just a feel-good day. It’s sustainable learning – you will leave with your own action and implementation plan tailored to your life, so you can apply what you’ve learned immediately and keep building momentum long after the retreat.
In the afternoon, slow down and reconnect with your senses in a mindful pressed flower card crafting, writing to self and picture workshop. We’ll ask a few questions ahead of time so we can pair you by goals and stage, and tailor examples to your context. Then, step outdoors for a unique partner reflection in nature – partnering with both the landscape and each other to inspire deeper insight and grounded action.
To help you stay accountable and supported, you’ll have the option to join three monthly follow-up group sessions (at a separate price) designed to check in on your progress, troubleshoot challenges, and keep you moving towards your goals.
This is a confidential and supportive space with limited seats to ensure meaningful connection and participation.
Date: Saturday 1 November 2025
Time: 9:00 AM -4:30 PMT
Location: Henley Business School, Greenlands Henley-on-Thames
RG9 3AU
Price: £250 – Early Bird £200 until 10 September