Our team at The Onlii is diverse and cross-generational, with a higher percentage of women than men in senior leadership roles. We’re proud to run an agency that takes EEDI seriously, working with HR and EEDI changemakers to shape our business practices as we grow.
Jo Faiers, Head of People & Culture
Can you tell us about a moment where you felt empowered as a woman?
Right now! That’s because I’m working with a company that genuinely values people and culture. It’s a place where I feel respected, trusted and able to make an impact (while balancing a busy life with two young children).
Can you tell us about a time you felt challenged in your career, and how you overcame it?
Early in my career, I witnessed obscene sexist behaviour, a senior female colleague was humiliated. It was a defining moment — I was young and inexperienced, but I refused to stay silent. I stood up, called it out, cried a lot and walked away from the company. Later, I heard that other female colleagues followed suit, proving that one act of courage can create a ripple effect.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women in our industry, what would it be?
You don’t need to sacrifice your female authenticity or struggle to prove yourself. Surround yourself with both female and male allies who encourage and champion you.
Clair Tapson-Harrison, Client Partner
Can you tell us about a moment where you felt empowered as a woman?
I feel empowered in the knowledge that as a part-time colleague, I still deserve (and can fulfil) a position on the Senior Leadership Team.
Can you tell us about a time you felt challenged in your career, and how you overcame it?
During my time at another agency, I was asked to step in and support Client Services with a longstanding local business. The client refused to speak to anyone in the agency but the Creative Director and Founder, who were both male. I was introduced to them in a meeting and ignored. I called to speak to them, and they wouldn’t call back.
So I started showing up, each week, asking to speak to them face-to-face. I maintained my voice in the room and showed an interest in their business. Slowly, but surely, the coin flipped. The client began to ask for my opinion (and value it) — while the agency started receiving more projects. Eventually, the client offered me a job working for his family business. The hard work, daily resilience and constant perseverance had paid off. I didn’t join the business — but to be asked spoke volumes.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women in our industry, what would it be?
My one piece of advice for the next generation is: Believe you can and you will.
Faye Beedle, Senior Creative Artwork Manager
Can you tell us about a moment where you felt empowered as a woman?
I felt empowered when I became the head of my team in a male-dominated field.
Can you tell us about a time you felt challenged in your career, and how you overcame it?
Progressional brick walls due to individual’s sexism and ageism. I overcame it by persevering at high standard and being proactive in my work which was recognised by senior team members.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women in our industry, what would it be?
Be true to who you are and trust yourself.
