The Equality Conversation podcast with bestselling author Joy Burnford explores how to create better workplaces for women. In this series, Joy sits down with forward-thinking HR and people leaders to uncover the policies, practices and cultural shifts driving real impact for women’s careers, wellbeing and sense of belonging. If you’re seeking insights, inspiration and proven approaches to help people thrive in your organisation, you’re in the right place. So grab a cuppa, head out for a walk, or simply escape for a while and tune in to today’s conversation.

In this episode, Joy Burnford speaks with Gill Hardy, Head of Executive Talent for EMEA at WPP plc and global lead of WPP’s Stella network for women, about what it really takes to drive gender equality in a global organisation. Gill shares WPP’s approach, from increasing the visibility of female leaders and investing in targeted development, to embedding inclusive policies across the business. She stresses the importance of continuous, data-driven action, noting that the gap between perceived progress and lived reality can be wider than many organisations realise. The conversation also explores the evolving role of women’s networks, the value of welcoming male allies, and how everyday micro-inclusions - such as consciously inviting women to speak first in meetings - can have a powerful impact on culture change.