Kate Hursthouse

What does Break the Bias mean to you?

It means dropping the stereotypes and assumptions.  As a career-oriented and financially independent solo mum, people can assume I am or have been married or have a partner.  In some pockets of society, there are still traditional views of families and the part women play, which I hope is fading.                                             

How can allies help to break the bias (or any specific form of bias)?

Don’t assume you know the whole story based on limited information and call out people who may be suggesting things based on gender stereotypes.

Who inspires you?

We have some really inspirational female leadership in the firm who are role models to me. They demonstrate that there are many ways to be a leader, and you don’t have to emulate traditionally masculine traits to be respected and effective.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing women?

I think there is still a lot to be done to recognise that it’s unrealistic to expect women to be perfect primary care givers and be at the top of their careers without a bit of flexibility and support.  We need to find different approaches so that it’s sustainable and you don’t have to sacrifice one part of your life for another. 

There are many ways to be a leader, you don’t have to emulate traditionally masculine traits to be respected and effective.