To celebrate International Women’s Day we had a Q&A with our Group Marketing Manager Jenny Harvie-Miller.

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I joined Mac Mic Group in 2005 after studying Marketing at university. I was amazed that many colleagues had 25+ years’ service- the sign of a great workplace undoubtedly- but hard for me to get my 20-something head around!

After spending my childhood moving with my family between various countries in West Africa and the Middle East, I was ready to set down some roots back in Scotland. This felt like the right fit for me, and I haven’t looked back. It will be my 20^th work anniversary in a couple of years- the same year that Mac Mic Group turns 100!

How long have you been working in your current role?

I Initially worked in a temporary position in the Sales & Marketing Team. Within a year or so a permanent junior marketing role was created for me. After various promotions I became Group Marketing Manager in 2021.

Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

It is important that we celebrate IWD to honour the struggle for equality that generations of courageous women before me have worked to overcome. IWD also helps to raise awareness that women still face discrimination in the UK today, and for many women across the world there’s still a long way to go to reach gender parity.

Do you feel that men and women have the same opportunities in your company?

Although the property sector is male dominated, I have to say that in my experience I have never felt any restrictions on my progression, and over the years several women have held senior positions within the company.

Having just returned to work following maternity leave after the birth of my second child, I am acutely aware of the challenges that women face in maintaining their career whilst looking after young children.

As a family-owned company, I have always found Mac Mic Group to be very supportive in this regard, especially with flexible and hybrid working. I felt supported during both of my maternity leaves and during the returns to work. I am pleased to say having a family has not stood in the way of my career advancement.

I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and for receiving professional recognition for the work I do.

If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be?

• Deborah Meaden- business woman and self-confessed “planet hugger”
• Madonna –the Queen of Pop
• Michaela Coel – British screenwriter and actress

If you could give your younger self any advice what would it be?

• Trust your gut – it is rarely wrong.
• Stop worrying about the past – move on no one died*.
• Always deliver bad news with as much haste as good news. *
• Ask lots of questions, knowledge is good, there are no wrong questions.
• Remember to breathe!

*Little shout out to Joanne Casey for these pearls of wisdom.