Belonging in the toughest moments: Amanda's Story

Amanda Simons, Head of Integrated Management Systems, reflects on the shifting landscape of gender diversity and the power of compassionate leadership.

After a remarkable 42-year career, I've had the unique opportunity to witness Saint-Gobain's evolution firsthand. 
My journey started with British Gypsum back in 1983 on a youth training scheme. I’ve progressed through various roles, eventually landing my current position as Head of Integrated Management Systems. I’m responsible for making sure SGIS continues to be compliant with the health and safety, environment, quality, and energy standards we are certified to, together with anything else that might be thrown at me!

It’s a job I love, every week is different, and it means that I get to spend time in all areas of SGIS, and beyond. One day I could find myself travelling to Brightling, East Sussex, and spending time in the mine, the next talking to a colleague in the R&R team about questions a customer might have about our certifications.

Changing times
Over the years, I've seen a noticeable shift in the workplace. I recall a time, especially when I first started in this role, when I was often the only woman in meetings. That has changed for the better, and we now have a much more diverse workforce. 
When it comes to belonging, I’ve felt incredibly supported by the company, especially during some of the most difficult times in my life. 

In 2021, my dad passed away after a long and horrible illness, and then I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my manager’s message was simple: “You do what you need to do”. Work was a welcome distraction, but I never felt pressured. The support was always offered rather than asked for, which made a huge difference. 

I’m a strong advocate for DEI, I’m here to create an inclusive culture where everyone feels understood, valued, and accepted. I firmly believe that one day, we won’t need to talk about DEI as a separate initiative because inclusion will simply be woven into the fabric of everything we do. It will just be “how we are now”.