Hosted with support from our good friends at Nucleus, this event is our dedicated networking event for Scotland.
Beyond the Career Ladder - Thriving through every stage of a woman’s career
Wednesday 16 September 2026 | 5.30pm-8.00pm | Nucleus, 12 Blenheim Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5JH
Careers are rarely linear.
This Women in Platforms event brings together women with very different experiences to talk about ambition, courage, opportunity and what needs to change if women are to thrive at every stage of their careers.
Expect an open, practical conversation.
What to expect
5.30pm - Arrival, drinks and networking
6.00pm - Rachael Bews
6.20pm - Panel discussion
7.00pm - Networking, drinks and conversation
8.00pm - Close
Register: Space is limited - so be quick to register.
Rachael Bews - keynote speaker
Edinburgh-based marketer, business owner, two-time CEO and mother, Rachael will open the evening.
She is campaigning to strengthen breastfeeding rights in the workplace and is also founder of ALICAS, a social enterprise supporting women who have fled abusive relationships.
Rachael will share her perspective on ambition, motherhood, opportunity and what workplaces need to do differently.
Susan Hope
Business Development Director at Scottish Widows and a Chartered Financial Planner with more than 30 years’ experience.
Susan is a passionate advocate for closing the gender pension gap and creating fairer financial futures for women.
Laura Young
Laura holds a regional role within Clifton Wealth Partnership’s Scottish business and is Deputy President of the CII’s Edinburgh Institute of Insurance & Financial Planning.
She’ll bring an honest perspective on courage, ambition and why women shouldn’t wait until they feel completely ready before stepping forward.
Your chair - Laura Barnes
Laura Barnes, Director of Business Development at Nucleus, will chair the panel.
With 30 years’ experience across financial services and platforms, Laura is known for building high-performing teams and leading with openness and authenticity.
She is a passionate champion of female talent, an active mentor and one of the driving forces behind the Women at Nucleus network.
At Women in Platforms, Laura will guide the conversation - drawing out the real experiences, challenges and practical changes that can help more women thrive throughout their careers.
The conversation
We’ll explore:
access to equal opportunities
courage and confidence
career progression and leadership
parenthood and caring responsibilities
flexible working
sponsorship, mentoring and support
what employers can do differently
And because Women in Platforms is also about opening doors, we’d love you to bring someone with you - particularly a woman who is new to the industry or earlier in her career.
Places are free, but registration is essential.