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Avon UK has appointed Sara Davies MBE, renowned entrepreneur and investor in Dragons’ Den, as its new Chief Inspiration Officer.
The appointment aims to strengthen efforts to help more women start and grow their own businesses.
Addressing barriers to female entrepreneurship
Avon’s recent research shows that almost a third of British women face significant barriers to starting their own business, including difficulties accessing finance, uncertainty about where to start and a lack of confidence. The research shows that 33% of women believe the business landscape favors men, and 23% believe they have fewer opportunities compared to their male counterparts.
As Chief Inspiration Officer, Davies will host masterclasses and mentoring sessions to provide Avon (Reps) representatives with the guidance and support needed to overcome these challenges. Her role is designed to inspire and equip women to run their businesses effectively and with confidence.
Davis’ mission
Expressing her excitement for the role, Sara said: “I’m excited to be joining Avon UK as its first Chief Inspiration Officer and working with both aspiring and existing Avon representatives who have the hunger to build their own business to build and run, on their own terms. . The research certainly resonates with many of the barriers I faced when starting my own business, and I know they still exist today and can seem insurmountable.”
Sara’s top tips for aspiring entrepreneurs include:
Have a plan: Set clear goals and write them down for accountability.
Do your research: Connect with brands that align with your values.
Build a personal brand: Let customers buy from you, not just your products.
Leverage your support network: Get advice and celebrate your successes.
Lead from the front: Consistency is key in inspiring and motivating your team.
Adjust your leadership style: Listen to your team’s needs and celebrate their achievements.
Avon’s continued commitment to women’s empowerment
For more than 137 years, Avon has been advocating positive change for women, providing tools and resources to help them build successful businesses. Avon Reps enjoy the flexibility to earn on their own terms, with opportunities to become leaders and recruit and support their own teams.
Tracey Powers, UK Sales Director at Avon, commented: “We need to do more to help women overcome the barriers they often face when starting their own business and embrace a working pattern that works for them. Avon’s business model ensures reps have more choice, flexibility and freedom to take control of their finances and realize their potential.”
Sara Davies, who founded Crafter’s Companion and became the youngest female investor in Dragons’ Den, is passionate about supporting women in business. Her involvement with Avon has already led to 18% sales growth for reps attending her masterclasses, demonstrating her positive impact.
Reflecting on her journey, Sara added: “The world of work has changed. The rigid 9-5, which is notoriously difficult for mothers, has been replaced with more flexible work and being an Avon representative offers women the opportunity to fill in the hours when it suits them. The country is filled with women from all walks of life with entrepreneurial flair and potential, so unlocking this would benefit the economy and give it a much-needed boost.”