International Women's Day: Celebrating Women in Salesforce

International Women’s Day is a dedicated time to celebrate the strength and achievements of the women we’re surrounded by. It gives women an extended platform to shout about their wins and express how we’re constantly pushing for development in a society that’s not always so forgiving. One of the key benchmarks for growth and ongoing strive towards equality is women and their representation in STEM careers. 

Steadman Brown are the UK’s Leading Salesforce Recruitment company, working with individuals predominantly throughout the UK looking to advance their careers in Salesforce technology. This International Women’s Day we are spotlighting stories of just a few women we have worked with to celebrate and uphold the achievements in their career journeys so far. 

Meghan, Arlanis Reply:

Meghan was introduced to the ecosystem after graduating university in 2023. She now works at the UK’s largest boutique Salesforce partner, Arlanis Reply, as one of their youngest Salesforce Consultants. Her role is to design Salesforce solutions, and identify how businesses can use Salesforce to its best capacity. 

Despite being early in her career, Meghan's impact has already been huge. She takes pride in the knowledge that her solutions have a massive impact on each client’s Salesforce journey, as well as the fact she’s worked from the ground up to get where she is now. 

Although, contrary to this success, joining Arlanis was not always something Meghan felt completely confident about. Coming from a smaller Salesforce partner, with a degree that initially stood out from her more technical colleagues, one of Meghan’s biggest challenges was overcoming imposter syndrome when comparing herself to others. 

However, it is much easier to focus on what you lack, rather than what you actually bring to the table. Meghan brings a strategic and consultative understanding to her role, and her Salesforce journey has become a source of inspiration at her former university. After being invited to speak to current students, her presentation attacked imposter syndrome head on, and whilst inspiring others facing similar doubts, it also gave her clarity of her skills and belonging. 

Meghan worked with Steadman Brown to find her role at Arlanis Reply. What stood out to her about the process was the care and reassurance given by our consultant, Jason. Reminding Meghan of her capability to make a career move. 

Claire, Art of Cloud:

Claire was somewhat accidentally introduced to the Salesforce ecosystem. Early in her career, she was asked to work on the backend of her company's platform, and quickly found herself their designated Administrator. Like many, Claire didn’t initially anticipate the possibilities of Salesforce as a career, yet now she finds herself working at Art of Cloud, one of Salesforce’s most successful Summit Partners.

As a Salesforce Consultant, Claire is responsible for designing successful solutions and strategically understanding her clients requirements. Her confidence is fuelled by the support of her team, who understand her career and trust in her capabilities. 

Despite her success, one of Claire’s challenges in the journey so far was her less formal introduction into the ecosystem. Whilst looking at jobs, Claire at times felt overwhelmed by their degree requirements and must-have certifications. Whilst having the experience and knowing Salesforce was the path for her, these expectations felt overwhelming and as though there was significant catching up to do.  

Yet, in reality, there is no ‘correct’ path into Salesforce, and Claire’s experience is what shapes her value and skills. With a supportive manager and team, Claire now feels like she’s where she’s meant to be and is fully enjoying her role.

Introduced to Art of Cloud by our Consultant, Ronnie, Claire felt like she’s gained everything she wanted from an opportunity. His support throughout made the process smooth and relaxing, setting up Claire for a strong start to her role. 

Aamena, Taylor Rose:

Aamena joined the Taylor Rose team last December, fitting naturally into her role as a Salesforce Reporting Analyst. With a passion for data, her work is critical for operational efficiency and informed decision making, turning what’s inside Salesforce into actionable solutions. 

Described as “ethically and civically minded,” Aamena is proud of not only her technical expertise, but the wider mindset she brings into her work. She ensures confidence through constant self development, authenticity, as well as strong encouragement and support from the Taylor Rose team.

However, not every encounter throughout Aamena’s career has been one of encouragement. As a woman confident in her ability and true to herself, certain experiences have led her to question if these attributes were actually a positive thing. At times, Aamena has felt inclined to change for the standards of others, and has even been explicitly told to tone herself down. Unfortunately, this is an experience which resonates with a lot of women, causing them to question their personalities to keep others comfortable. 

However, despite facing these challenges, Aamena has proudly not given in to self-suppression. Instead, these experiences have taught valuable lessons. One that stood out most was encouraging her children that nothing stands in the way of what they want to achieve. With daughters in STEM subjects and in support of women everywhere, Aamena is a strong advocate of owning your right to be in the room. Emphasising overall that gender, ethnicity or sex pose no barriers no matter what you’re told.

Axelle, Taylor Rose:

Another key asset to the Taylor Rose team is Axelle, Scrum Master. After moving to the UK in 2011, she had never pictured herself working in technology. Like for many women, this was always something that felt male-dominated and distant. Yet, after being introduced to the industry by a friend, Axelle began as a Software Tester and quickly flourished to Scrum Master where she continues to thrive.

At Taylor Rose, Axelle is responsible for providing constant support to delivery teams, enabling productivity and efficiency in all Salesforce solutions. Described by her colleagues as energetic and bubbly, Axelle plays an essential role in ensuring the cohesion of the Salesforce team and its successful output. 

As well as the confidence that comes with fully owning her role, Axelle is fuelled by the positive environment she’s created for her team. Affirming a non-intimidating culture that encourages you to ask questions, put yourself out there and be comfortable that you’ve earned the right to be there. This comfort strengthens cohesion, where every team member is empowered to work to their best ability. 

However, creating this positive environment has come with its challenges. Where scrum represents collaborative, strategic working, social differences have sometimes created barriers in achieving its ideal. Yet, with patience and inclusion, this has been something Axelle has proudly mastered. Finding the balance of seeing past personal differences amongst colleagues, whilst also acknowledging and respecting their existence has been fundamental in allowing everyone to work together. Diverse teams are ultimately essential for promoting different perspectives, growth and innovative thinking. 

Both Axelle and Aamena both worked with Steadman Brown to find these opportunities at Taylor Rose. Gavin from our team was on hand to provide support, empower confidence and fully understand their career goals. This has ensured a smooth transition into Taylor Rose, and that both are genuinely happy with their new Salesforce roles.

Thank you!

A big thank you to all of the women who took part in this blog, and a final reminder that women should be celebrated every day, not just once a year. It was a pleasure to highlight these stories. 

If you would like to find your next Salesforce position alongside Steadman Brown, please reach out to one of our team.