Page 5 - BPW-UK -E-news - Edition 107 - November 2022 - BINDED

Governance can make a difference

We have had a busy time on the Governance Taskforce over the last two years
promoting the change in how BPW UK operates. The main impact was to extend the FEC to
a five-member team to support the President with each member being given a specific
agenda.

This meant that five Vice Presidents each took on the leadership of a Working
Group (WG) geared to achieving our objectives. After a trial period, it was agreed that
these groups were working well and the Governance Task Force urged the acceptance of
the constitutional adjustments for permanent change.

We can see and enjoy the difference it has made. The Membership WG has devel-
oped a new initiative “Friends of” to gain support and expertise for our activities. The
Media and Marketing WG is spearheading our outreach through the Newsletter, finding ex-
cellent speakers and getting the new website designed. The International WG is helping
members develop knowledge and contact with IFBPW and making sure that BPW UK is
represented regionally and internationally. YBPW has benefited from more members and in
external representation. Advocacy is developing a more robust lobbying strategy. Having a
panel of VPs in support has allowed Jo Kinsey the President to up activity on all fronts,
defining issues, building strong relationships with other UK women’s organisations and
gaining respect in BPW Europe and International.

The aim of the Working Groups, Interest Groups and Task Forces was to encourage
involvement by the membership at large – allowing members with little activity in their
local area - to participate in the programmes and decisions for BPW UK, increasing its
outreach and action. The Zoom meetings give us an opportunity to have the interaction
that has not been possible face to face the last few years and most importantly the chance
to grow BPW UK as a force for all women. ◼

Sylvia Perry – Governance Task Force