Meet the allies backing our mission.

• Tell us about yourself and your career/business?

I’m a Partner at FRP Corporate Finance, advising businessowners on company disposals, acquisitions and fundraises. I started out mycareer as an auditor, qualifying as a chartered accountant before moving intocorporate finance. I worked at a number of well known accountancy firms beforelaunching Williams Ali Corporate Finance in 2019, which I sold to FRP lastyear.

• What inspired you to get involved with this Smart Works?

The incredible work that you do. Coming from a minority background, I realise how hard it can be to be given a chance and I think it is wonderful that organisations like Smart Works exist to help women get into work.

• What does being a male ally mean to you?

As a proud father to my beautiful daughter Amelia, I’m proud to be an ally. I think it is important that men realise we have a responsibility to try and even out the imbalances that exist in the workplace and I hope my daughter faces a fairer work environment when she grows up.

• Which woman from the North East do you admire and why?

My good friend, ex colleague and Smart Works trustee, Maxine Fox. She is the one who introduced me to Smart Works and is a huge advocate for women in the workplace. I try not to say too many nice things about Max, but she is an incredibly hardworking, honest and kind person who does a huge amount of good for so many people.

• What advice would you give to other men who want to get involved but don’t know where to start?

Reach out to one of the team and find out more about the work that they do. I’m sure you’ll have women in your life that could of at some point done with the help of an organisation like Smart Works.

• How do you help raise awareness and support Smart Works within your workplace or wider network?

I try to get to the events when I can, supporting in raising funds or awareness, I will continue to advocate for the charity.

Want to support our work?

Here's how to get involved email: samara.laboriel@smartworks.org.uk

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