International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate progress, recognise the achievements of women in our industry, and share practical guidance that can help others build fulfilling careers. At Cooper Associates Group, we are proud to be led by a female CEO and to have women represented across the organisation, with 64 out of our 136 team members being women. We believe that confidence grows when people feel supported and that shared experience plays a powerful role in professional development.
To mark International Women’s Day, we invited women across Cooper Associates Group.
to share the advice that has shaped their careers, recognising the valuable contributions they make across our organisation every day. Our hope is that their insights will help anyone at the beginning of their professional journey and provide encouragement, confidence, and guidance as they take their next steps.
We asked the following question:
“What is the best advice you have received throughout your career that you would like to share with other women beginning theirs?”
What our team had to say
Some of our team members who wanted to share their insights couldn’t join us on filming day, so we have included their advice below.
Sam Ball, Operations and Finance Manager:
“Don’t be afraid of trying something new, stepping out of your comfort zone or pushing yourself.”
Jade North, Client Relationship Manager:
“Just be you and everything will work out. Not everyone will be your cup of tea, or the other way around, so always stay true to yourself.”
Lexi Harris, Trainee Accountant:
“Always push yourself out of your comfort zone and take on challenges that scare you. Take time to determine what your goals are, how you’re going to meet them and then take proactive steps to shape your career.”
Hattie Hlad, Business Development Executive:
“No question is a silly question. Never pretend to know the answer to something if you don’t. Ask the question, ask to join the meeting, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.”
Beth Martin, Mortgage and Protection Adviser:
“Understand the difference between likability and respect – do this by setting boundaries and not over-apologising or over-explaining. Workplace expectations are evolving and the responsibility sits with all of us to be the change we want to see in the workplace and beyond.”
Ceri Priddle, Personal Assistant:
“Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities and have confidence to ask for help as there is no such thing as a silly question. Mistakes happen as we are all human, but the important thing is to learn and grow from them.”
Debbie Latto, Senior Client Relationship Manager:
“Trust and believe in yourself and your capabilities, and you will go far.”
Kate Mays, Mortgage and Protection Adviser:
“Increase your knowledge as early as possible to build the confidence needed to succeed. Knowledge is power so ask questions constantly and learn as much as you can.”
Advice in action
This guidance applies not only to career development, but to the decisions we make every day, whether that involves navigating mortgages, managing finances or planning a new business venture. Confidence, curiosity, and support make a meaningful difference across all areas of personal, professional, and financial life.
By continuing to learn from each other, share knowledge, and celebrate achievements, we strengthen careers and our organisation as a whole.
At Cooper Associates Group, this culture is central to the way we work. It helps our teams grow, ensures we provide thoughtful guidance to our clients, and reflects our commitment to supporting all individuals in finance today and in the future.
