Management Accountant Lindy McChesney-Tilley says the increased number of women at TG Lynes – particularly in senior roles – has helped to bring diversity and balance to the business.

Lindy started at TG Lynes as an accounts assistant in 2007 and has worked her way up in today’s five-strong accounting team.

Lindy was one of only four women in the business when she first joined – and she was the very first to work in the warehouse.

Reflecting on her career on International Women’s Day, Lindy said: “The company was much smaller at the time so during the busy summer months everyone in the office would chip in and help with picking and packing after 3pm until close.

“Warehouses are historically male-dominated environments and 15 years ago I was the first woman they had seen picking and packing.

“As it was something new, not everyone was comfortable with it. I was keen to help the team though and quickly reassured some of the sceptics that I could do the job to their high standards.

“Eventually I won them round and was accepted – and I’m really pleased I did that. In a small way I helped pave the way for other women to work in the warehouse.”

Lindy, who worked in fast food retail before joining TG Lynes, said she is pleased to see more women working at the business, from delivery drivers to members of the senior management team.

“It helps to bring balance to the business,” said Lindy, who lives in Harlow. “If you work with a group of people and they are all the same sex or race it can cause people to clash. You need diversity, and it’s good that people bring different views, too.

“I have seen big improvements at TG Lynes in my decade-and-a-half. The diversity of the workforce was starting to improve as I joined, but it really accelerated when we became part of the Grafton Group in 2015.

“When I left school there were obvious barriers to what women could achieve but it is changing.

“Sheryl Kara Sandberg (former chief operating officer of Meta Platforms) is a hero of mine because she is a champion of women in the workplace. She inspires me to want to progress in my own career.”

Lindy said she has enjoyed being part of TG Lynes’ growth, adding: “Being part of a large corporation has meant we have enjoyed a nicer working environment and a better structure.

“There are benefits for colleagues as well such as the wellness programme, which is well used.

“I am enjoying my job and hope to keep pushing on in the years to come.”