Stop waiting for permission and start leading: Sarah Griffiths

As part of International Women’s Day 2026, leaders in Greater Birmingham share their thoughts on the power of reciprocity and support following this year’s theme of ‘Give to Gain’.

Sarah Griffiths Director at PMO at Intercity Technology wants to advocate for more women in leadership by challenging bias, building supportive networks, and mentoring the next generation to step confidently into opportunities.

Sarah highlights the need for greater female representation in senior leadership, addressing structural barriers in the workplace, and supporting women through mentorship, confidence, and strong professional networks.

What changes would you like to see for women in business in Greater Birmingham?:

I’d like to see more women represented in senior leadership and decision making roles across Birmingham.

We have incredibly talented women in this region, but too many still hit structural barriers or feel they have to over justify their credibility.

Creating more visible pathways into leadership, paired with genuinely inclusive cultures, would make a significant difference. I’d also like to see stronger support networks and mentorship opportunities that help women connect across industries

What is one action you could take to challenge gender bias or stereotypes?

One action I think we all need to take more consistently is calling out biased assumptions in a constructive and professional way.

Whether that’s in meetings, recruitment discussions, or project environments. Often bias isn’t intentional, but the impact still matters.

By naming it calmly and offering an alternative perspective, we can help shift the conversation and set a tone that others feel confident to follow.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a woman in business and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges has been navigating environments where my capability was underestimated or assumptions were made before I had the chance to demonstrate my expertise.

I try to stay focused on delivery to prove them wrong, consistently produce high quality work, build trusted relationships, and be clear and confident about the value I bring.

Over time, credibility grows, but it also taught me the importance of helping other women avoid those same barriers.

This year’s IWD theme is Give to Gain. How will you give back to either your organisation or community to help drive more change?

For me, Give to Gain means investing time in others, particularly women who are earlier on their career journey.

This year I’m committing to continue to mentor and share knowledge around delivery, governance, and leadership, hoping to create space for women to step up and take opportunities. Giving back strengthens the whole ecosystem.

When women thrive, teams, organisations, and communities all benefit.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to women looking to succeed in your industry?

Back yourself!

IT, project and programme environments can be fast‑paced and high‑pressure, but your voice and perspective have real value.

Don’t wait to feel absolutely ready before stepping forward. Take the opportunity, learn as you go, and surround yourself with people who both challenge and support you. And importantly, stay true to your integrity.

It’s one of the strongest assets you have.

How has being part of GBCC helped support your business or career? 

Being part of GBCC, particularly Future Faces, and now serving as President, has been instrumental in my professional development.

It has given me the platform to grow my leadership capability, broaden my strategic thinking, and gain exposure to a diverse network of emerging and senior leaders across the region.

Future Faces has pushed me outside my comfort zone in all the right ways. Representing my organisation publicly, speaking publicly, leading conversations on key issues, and championing talent across Birmingham.

Stepping into the President role has strengthened my confidence and my understanding of the wider business landscape.

Most importantly, it has connected me to a community of driven, supportive professionals who challenge me, inspire me, and help me keep expanding my perspective.

Being part of this network has genuinely accelerated my growth and shaped the leader I am today.