My name is Zoe Hands and I am the Sales Leader at The Leeds Marriott Hotel. I have worked at the hotel for almost 25 years starting as a waitress and working my way up the ladder!
I love being a member of The Yorkshire Businesswoman group. I really enjoy attending events and being a part of such an amazing and supportive group of women!
I joined Yorkshire Businesswoman about 2 years ago and I can honestly say that it has changed my life for the better. My friend Perrin Read recommended the group to me and since that first meeting I haven’t looked back!
I have made more than just business contacts – the women I have met have become true friends and their kindness and support has been incredible. Its wonderful to have a network of strong successful professional women all looking out for each other.
The networking meetings are welcoming and friendly but also very informative with interesting speakers sharing inspiring stories of how they have overcome challenges, set up businesses and got where they are today. All members are encouraged to get involved with telling their stories and participating in different activities such as podcasts. I leave the meetings feeling uplifted and motivated.
I am a proud single mum with 4 boys and I work full time. It is so fabulous to meet other business women who share the same challenges as me and are so supportive and understanding of the juggling act that goes on for working mums!
The connections I have made have lead on to lots of exciting opportunities in business and also in my personal life. I have started volunteering with Louise Reed and the charity Focus 4 Hope which brings me so much personal fulfilment.
I am beyond excited to be a part of the committee organising the very first Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards taking place at The Leeds Marriott on 8th of March 2024 celebrating International Womens Day! It is an absolute joy for me to be hosting such a prestigious event at my own hotel! This has been an incredible opportunity for me to work alongside some of the most talented women in the business and I have learned so much from them.
As with anything- I always think you get back what you put in. If you are willing to be open and embrace all the opportunities you will find endless rewards! I always make lots of new connections at the meetings and we follow up on Linked in or meet up for one to ones in the hotel.
I strongly believe that women are stronger when we cheer each other on ! I cannot say enough great things about this group and I’m so grateful that I am a part of such an outstanding community of incredible women!
“When women support each other – Incredible things happen”
