Kate Usher, Menopause and Gender Equity Consultant at Menopause in Business, stands at the forefront of advocacy in the realms of diversity and inclusion, particularly concerning the impact of menopause on gender equity. With a rich tapestry of experience spanning multiple disciplines, she has meticulously positioned herself as not just a speaker, but an ambassador for change. Her efforts have carved out a unique niche, enlightening organisations about the invaluable contributions of their female workforce during and post-menopause.
A glimpse into Kate's professional journey reveals an evolution from her initial role as an IT Manager in the late '80s to her defining role as a Menopause and Gender Equity Consultant. Over these years, her vast experiences, ranging from project management at global powerhouses such as Unilever and Rio Tinto to her private psychotherapy and hypnotherapy practice, have culminated in a wealth of knowledge. Kate's multifaceted career journey has granted her a profound understanding of the challenges women face in the corporate world. Her book "Your Second Phase: Reclaiming Work and Relationships During and After Menopause," encapsulates her ethos. Shortlisted for the Business Book of the Year award in 2020, it is a testament to her groundbreaking work in the field of gender equality. Further, being named a LinkedIn Top Voice on Gender Equality further solidifies her standing as a beacon of change.
Recognising the menopausal phase as a pivotal juncture in a woman's career, Kate founded Menopause in Business. Her efforts have been centred around redefining menopausal narratives, transforming them from perceived setbacks to opportunities for growth and empowerment. She's spent over a decade championing the cause, ensuring women aren't side-lined due to biological transitions but instead are celebrated and supported. In her capacity as a keynote speaker, Kate Usher doesn't just echo her understanding of menopause and its professional implications. She integrates her comprehensive insights into diversity, inclusion, and mental well-being. As organisations increasingly realise the necessity of fostering an inclusive environment, Kate's voice resonates, providing actionable insights on retaining female talent and addressing the gender pay gap.
Organisations can no longer afford to neglect the needs and potential of their diverse workforce. Kate Usher's work goes beyond just educating; it's about catalysing action. By identifying and addressing barriers within organisational cultures and practices, she facilitates environments where every individual, irrespective of their life stage or gender, can flourish. Today, when Kate steps up to the podium as a keynote speaker, attendees are not merely introduced to the concept of menopause in business. They are enveloped in a broader narrative of diversity, inclusion, and well-being, hallmarked by Kate Usher's enduring commitment to ensuring women thrive at every phase of their lives.
