International Women’s Day 2025

For International Women’s Day this year, the theme is ‘Accelerate Action.’ Can you tell us how Cashroom is supporting this? 

Yes, over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in the number of women in leadership roles, which is fantastic. This growth hasn’t been driven by a conscious decision based on gender but reflects the talent, dedication, and contributions of these individuals. At Cashroom, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and progress based on their skills and achievements. Supporting professional development and providing opportunities for all is key to accelerating meaningful action.

How do you manage balancing work and personal life and what advice do you have for others striving to do the same?  

I must admit that achieving a perfect balance between work and personal life is a continuous challenge and journey. Establishing clear boundaries between my professional and personal time is key, even though working closely with my husband, Chris O’Day and other close family members often blurs those lines, I do try and keep boundaries where possible.

Utilizing our portal for task management has been incredibly helpful, and any effective time management tool can work wonders.

Learning to say no has been a valuable lesson for me, allowing me to prioritize and delegate tasks effectively. Sharing responsibilities with colleagues at work or family members and friends at home can ease the burden, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Remember, building a strong support team around you only enhances your capabilities – this applies to work and personal life.

Finally, I try to adjust my expectations, recognizing that there are moments when I perform exceptionally well at work and times when I may not. Sometimes I am on it with wellbeing and parenting and often I am not. Sometimes I fit in a mammoth amount of work and other weeks I have to push a deadline. Knowing that perfection in all areas of life isn’t always achievable, I’ve learned to prioritize various aspects of my life as required. While it can be tough, it’s ultimately okay.

“Recognise your own skills and knowledge; and take risks. As women we often recognise strengths in others, our partners, children and colleagues but we do not always realise our own power. Knowing what your skills are and how you can use them to your advantage in your career can help you achieve your goals.”

Katie Wilson, Head of Onboarding

I have. I do have a vivid memory of telling someone I was pregnant with my second child and their instant response being ‘I hope you have a boy this time and you don’t go off and do this again.’  I chose to have my first 2 children close together and I had dreaded the conversation in advance, it was horrible.

I have had clothes and outfits commented on as well as being spoken over and interrupted in conversations frequently. I have also had someone greeting me at an event (a stranger) by kissing me on the top of my head, like I was a little girl.

Honestly with all of these, I wish I had some witty and strong response, but I just took them and got on with my work – hindsight is a wonderful thing.

I have used ongoing professional training and development to enhance my skills and knowledge, so I stood out more in the workplace and I have continuously pursued leadership roles and projects that align with my goals. Despite challenges, I have utilized continuous professional development to excel in my field, actively pursuing leadership opportunities. Leading by example, I advocate for gender equality within my team, ensuring inclusivity and a comfortable environment for all.  I am very open with my team that I never want them to feel uncomfortable in any situation.

“Choose your words carefully and purposefully. Don’t use phrases such as “I’m sure its me being stupid”, this is insulting your own intelligence, whereas “please could you clarify this further” removes the self blame and is more positive and empowering for you. Always remember, you have worked hard to get where you are and have just as much right as anyone else to be in these conversations.”

Rachel Faris, Head of HR and Compliance

If you could give one piece of advice to yourself at the beginning of your career with the experience you have now, what would it be?    

Speak up – 95% of the time you were right – trust your gut!

And stay curious and commit to continuous learning without the mum guilt– your kids are now all through nursery and at school and they are fine! None of the children seem scarred for life from crying every day at nursery drop offs!

Believe in yourself. Have confidence in everything that you’re doing and know your strengths. Work towards your strengths and build a network of people around you that have strengths that compliment yours.

Catherine O’Day, Founder and Non Exec Director

For information about International Women’s Day and how you can get involved click here