We’re pleased to announce that we have launched a Community Interest Company (CIC), The West of England Women’s Community Interest Company.
This will create new opportunities to secure funding for critical projects that support our ambition to advance the equality and opportunities of women and girls across the region.
As part of this next phase, we’re delighted to welcome three new Non-Executive Directors, who will work alongside our Co-Chairs and bring a wealth of experience, insight and energy to our work.
Meet our new Non-Executive Directors
Carmen Peacock
Carmen Peacock is Head of Regional Development and Key Accounts at Lloyds Bank, Chair of the CBI South West and an Independent Non-Executive Director at South West Investment Group. Based in Bristol, she works with many of the region’s leading businesses, supporting investment, strategic ambitions and complex financing. Alongside her banking career, Carmen is a strong advocate for the South West, working with business leaders and policymakers to champion the region, attract investment and support a dynamic and inclusive economy.
Raluca Tudor
Raluca Tudor is an ACCA qualified senior finance leader and GBS RTR Global Integration Lead at IVC Evidensia, one of Europe's largest veterinary groups. Her commitment to making finance work for people, not just organisations, extends beyond the corporate world. As Treasurer and Trustee for Caring in Bristol, she brings financial leadership and governance expertise to one of the city's most vital homelessness charities for young people. She has consistently used her platform to elevate women in finance, challenge the gender pay gap and advocate for workplaces where talent is recognised regardless of gender. She is deeply committed to playing her part in building a region where every woman can thrive.
Sara Brigden
Sara Brigden is an experienced business leader with a proven track record of scaling professional services organisations, building high-performing teams, and driving sustainable growth. Most recently, she served as Managing Director of specialist tax consultancy ForrestBrown. She is passionate about developing talent, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, and supporting the progression of women into leadership roles. She brings extensive leadership experience, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to advancing women's representation and influence across the West of England.
Penny Gane, Co-Chair of the West of England Women’s Commission said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity to extend the work that the Commission is doing to improve the lives of women and girls across our region. We’re extremely grateful to our new Non-Executive Directors for giving us their time and expertise. Having these brilliant professionals on board will put us in an even better position to advance the work that we do”.
Zara Nanu, Co-Chair of the West of England Women’s Commission said:
“Founding our CIC marks an important milestone for West of England Women’s Commission and will expand our capacity to make a difference in our community. The Commission and our work will benefit immensely from the guidance and vision of our new Non-Executive Directors and we look forward to working closely with them”.
