Inspirational women of ICIS

1 Growing up did you think you would be in your current role or a similar one?

Yes, I did! My personality has very much contributed to that. I strive to be best at everything I do and enjoy helping people achieve their goals. Looking over my old school records I have teachers commenting “Tara is great at getting other classmates on board with projects and makes the experience very positive, she is a born leader”. In saying that, I also had comments like "It would be good to see Tara put her hand up in class when she has a comment". At 36 years old I’m still not doing that as much as I'd like to, it's definitely a work in progress and that's OK.

2 Was there a defining moment in your personal or professional life that led you to the role you are in now?

Being made Head of Americas marketing two years ago and moving to Houston from London was definitely a key milestone in my life. I was chuffed, pleased and anxious at the same time. I was happy that my work had been recognised and the business trusted me to start a new role and team in another country. The journey, like anything in life hasn’t been easy. Though every difficulty and challenge is definitely a learning experience and that has always been the way I operate both personally and professionally.

3 Who inspires you or did you have a mentor(s) that made a significant impact on your career?

I surround myself with positive people who bring the best out of me, who help me grow and develop – I believe you embody values and behaviours of the people around you and my circle of friends, colleagues and family reflect just that. My mentor is a successful woman at RELX and truly inspires me. Her career experience and where she is now is an example of perseverance, determination and commitment; everything that I value and truly inspirational. On a different note, fitness is an important part of my life and I train everyday with two women - both of whom are training for the Olympics 2021. Their passion and drive for excellence motives me massively and though I might not be cut out for the Olympics (just yet), I definitely take pleasure in watching their sets.

7 What advice would you give to other women who are starting their careers?

Be yourself and don't let challenges or pressures define you or make you think you aren't capable of success. The best leaders, regardless of gender, are the those who have immense self-awareness and can truly find an opportunity or positive light when challenged or going through a difficult time. If I were to choose three words to embody, I'd say be passionate, determined and stay consistent – the William sisters (Serena and Venus) are examples of this!

8 How do you think businesses can help support getting more women in leadership roles?

I think being conscious of different personalities and behaviours. Just because an individual is quiet in nature or more reserved doesn't mean they aren't just as good as another who is bold, loud and confident. Dedicated women leadership programmes do help and I truly believe in its success.

1 Growing up did you think you would be in your current role or a similar one?

I didn’t no! I wanted to be a spy when I was younger!

2 What about your career choices and options. Would you say you were aware about your current role/sector as a career option?

Not at all. I went to quite a traditional school where most of our career conversations were related to law and medicine. I ended up studying international politics and nearly fulfilled my childhood dream of becoming a spy. After five years of study, I was offered a role where they would pay for my lunches and so I pivoted slightly.

3 Was there a defining moment in your personal or professional life that led you to the role you are in now?

I have always believed that you are responsible for your own career and so have always had that work ethic both in my personal and professional life. Advocates and supporters are key but ultimately you own your career choices.

4 Did you have a woman mentor(s) that made a significant impact on your career or someone that inspires you?

I have been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by many women who have had a positive impact on me both personally and professionally. I had a fabulous female mentor/role model in my last company who was our CMO and who taught me the importance of personal brand. I also have two male mentors/advocates who have supported me throughout my career and were instrumental in my decision to join ICIS. I believe very strongly in the importance of reverse mentoring and have learnt so much from people I mentor as well. Peer mentoring and support is also incredibly important for me. Sometimes you need to have a trusted sounding board for frustrations/ideas/thoughts.

1 Growing up did you think you would be in your current role or a similar one?

No, not really.  I could not imagine myself as a businesswoman at all. My childhood dream was to be fiction book writer. Creative writing was one of my favourite subjects when I was at school. My favourite book is Three Days to See by Helen Keller, a great story that makes you appreciate the little things in life that we don't really notice or appreciate until it's gone. Teaches you a lot about perception.

2 When your were younger, were you aware that your current role/sector was a career option?

Yes. I had an interest in marketing and business management when I was studying my master’s degree in the UK and could definitely see myself working in this sector. After I finished my studies, I worked in multiple roles and businesses in similar industries.

3 What was the deciding factor to join ICIS?

I think my experience as an international student and living in the UK was one of the factors. I loved the culture and work ethic and could see myself working for a British company and help its success in China. When the role at ICIS came up I knew this would be great career move.

1 Growing up did you think you would be in your current role or a similar one?

When I was a child, I went through a phase where I wanted to be a marine biologist and train dolphins. But the reality is that I was genetically destined to be in the chemical industry. I am part of a third generation of chemical engineers that have made careers in this industry. My grandfather and dad both sold plastics for most of their careers. I picked up the bug early on once I realised I too, had a love for math and science. I did not envision my career would take a turn towards consulting, but my love for these markets and for teaching has led me here today.  

2 If you could have any other job what would it be?

I would be a middle school or high school teacher.  Being able to influence kids to love math and science instead of fearing these subjects would be a very rewarding experience for me. 

3 Do you see things evolving for women in leadership roles?

I am very encouraged by the women representation in leadership positions within RELX and ICIS. It's great to see the level of diversity, especially after nearly a 20 year career in large petrochemical companies, where the proverbial glass ceiling is only starting to come down. I believe companies have begun to see the importance of diverse viewpoints which really help spur creativity and innovation. In my opinion, women have unique skills that are highly valuable like attention to detail, measured thinking, long term vision and planning, organisational skills and empathy for others which helps build a cohesive team.        

1 Growing up did you think you would be in your current role or a similar one?

Growing up I wanted to be a scientist. A marine biologist to be exact – out at sea, swimming amongst manta rays and saving sea turtles. Through my 10-year-old eyes, I viewed scientists on Discovery Channel as those with the ability to save ecosystems and ultimately our planet. This developed into a passion and I knew from an early age that I wanted a career to help build a more sustainable future. As an Analyst for plastics recycling, my team directly supports ICIS’ sustainability vision and I thoroughly enjoy working on our strategy and journey ahead. My role allows me to work with businesses and stakeholders, facilitating dialogue as we work together towards a circular economy and sustainable future. 

2 When you were younger, were you aware that your current role/sector was a career option?

I did not know of a career in Sustainability or heard of plastics recycling as an industry. There definitely weren’t roles like sustainable innovation consultants, which are becoming increasingly more common now. It’s fascinating to see how sustainability is now a major focus for countries around the world and that businesses now have dedicated teams and resources working on just that. I am pleased to know that “green” jobs could be a career option to future generations.

3 Has there been a particular obstacle or pressures that you’ve had to overcome as a woman in your profession?

I started my career in corporate organisations immediately after I graduated and always felt like I had to prove myself, my expertise and what I bring to the table. At ICIS, while I may be youngest in my team, I love that we all have mutual respect for one another and work so well together. Over the years, my confidence and work ethic has changed and I am pleased to be part of a team that lets me work in my own way, without the need for fitting into a specific routine or style of working.