Laura Evans
CEO
Driven by her passion for addressing social inequalities, Laura is a consultant, leader and public speaker with almost two decades’ experience in Operations, Policy, Regulatory Compliance, and Human Resources in the public, private, and charity sectors.
Laura’s career has focussed on helping to remove the barriers people face in society – in education and employment – by supporting organisations to shape inclusive cultures. She founded Glass Ceilings® in 2020 as a progressive people partner supporting organisations to thrive because their people thrive, securing a future in which no individual or group is left behind in employment.
In addition to a commercial focus, Laura has a long-standing commitment to public service, with a focus on addressing social inequalities and supporting individuals and institutions in the broader profession. Her experience includes:
- Embedding Macpherson Report recommendations and developing and implementing equalities legislation and policy in her first leadership role (for which she was recommended for the Civil Service Diversity Award)
- Serving as Expert Panel Member on Responsible Business for Liverpool Chamber of Commerce
- Serving on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Expert Advisory group for the Institute of Directors
- Serving as an Advisory Board member on employment law and policy for Long Covid Support
- Thought leadership speaking at conferences and events
- Transformational change leadership and streamlining operations during 45% cuts whilst avoiding making posts redundant
- Employment Tribunal cases and complex Employment Relations casework
- Advising Counsel in cases at the High Court, Court of Appeal, and UK Supreme Court
- Pro bono coaching for professionals made redundant during the Covid pandemic.
- Sitting on the Federation of Small Business NW Business Advisory Group
- Helping to set up the CIPD Independent Consultant’s network
- Mentoring Directors with the Chartered Management Institute
- Acting as Senior People Professionals Champion, a Stonewall Workplace Ally and a Dementia Friend with the Alzheimer’s Society
- Serving as Vice Chair of Governors at a primary school and a non-executive board member and Chair of Citizens Advice Sefton
Laura graduated with Honours in English Language and Literature from Newcastle University in 2005, and later graduated with a Masters degree in Human Resource Management with CIPD Advanced Level Standards from Liverpool John Moores University alongside working full time. She also holds postgraduate masters level qualifications in HR Directorship and Organisational Design and Development. Laura is currently studying Law part time at the University of Law.
Memberships
- Associate Member, Employment Lawyers Association
- Chartered Fellow, Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (UK)
- Chartered Manager and Fellow, Chartered Management Institute (UK)
- Fellow, Institute of Leadership (UK)
- Fellow, Australian HR Institute
- Fellow, Institute of Managers & Leaders Australia and New Zealand
- Institute of Directors
Amy Lester
Executive Assistant
Amy plays an integral role in business development, marketing, and operational efficiencies. Amy is responsible for managing Laura’s diary and schedule as well as supporting and co-ordinating online webinars and masterclasses on a monthly basis. In addition, Amy supports with ad-hoc requirements as needed to ensure everything at Glass Ceilings continues to run smoothly! Amy has over 12 years of experience in Business Administration, Operations and Marketing across a variety of industries, making her a valuable asset to the team.
Associates
Lisa Ellis
Senior Associate Consultant
Lisa is an Employment Relations Specialist with over 15 years of experience. She brings a wealth of expertise in HR matters and conflict resolution across diverse public and private sector organisations. Her commitment to improving workplace relationships began spending nine-years at ACAS as a trainer and senior adviser, where she refined her skills and insights into the intricacies of employment law and employment relations.
Key Competencies:
- Training and Development: Qualified to Post-Graduate level in Individual Employment Dispute Resolution and a skilled facilitator, Lisa delivers bespoke training programs that encourage organisations to explore ways of improving working life and navigate employment relations challenges with increased confidence.
- Conflict Resolution: With a proven track record, Lisa excels in resolving workplace conflicts through providing mediation services. She was also a tutor at Acas for their accredited mediation training course, contributing to the professional development of others.
- A Mental Health First Aid instructor, Lisa is passionate about fostering workplace cultures that prioritise and support mental health. She actively contributes to creating environments where mental well-being is a top priority.
Memberships
- Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
- 'Programme of Activities Lead' for the Merseyside and North Cheshire CIPD Branch Committee.