BITZER UK’s Samantha Buckell has been appointed Co-chair of the Institute of Refrigeration's Women in RACHP Network (WiRACHP). Working with Co-chair Astrid Prado of Star Refrigeration, they succeed Lisa-Jayne Cook, who has stepped down to become IOR President.
Sam joined BITZER UK in 2016 as PA to Managing Director Kevin Glass, and has played a key role in the company and wider industry in championing the contribution of women across the sector, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion (D&I) for the industry's future.
Challenges and opportunities
"We are delighted and very proud that Sam has been appointed to jointly head-up IOR's Women in RACHP Network," said Kevin Glass, MD of BITZER UK.
"Sam was, in fact, the first chair of the group when it was formed in 2016, under the presidency of Steve Gill. So, she is no stranger to the leadership role, with the challenges and opportunities this presents. Sam and the network have our wholehearted support in the great work they do on behalf of women in RACHP and, indeed, the industry as a whole."
Prior roles of Samantha
Sam has a number of D&I initiatives, promoting and attending the Stemazing Inspiration Academy
Sam's advocacy for the contribution of women at work dates back to her previous employer Arup, where she served for 14 years in senior administrative and HR positions in the company’s London headquarters. In her role at BITZER UK, in addition to acting as PA she has responsibility for advertising, event and project planning, and social media.
Since joining, Sam has been part of a number of D&I initiatives, including promoting and attending the Stemazing Inspiration Academy, and contributed in numerous ways to the award-winning work of the Women in RACHP Network, including its training courses and nationwide discussion forums. She is currently heading up an IOR team that produces the network’s monthly blog on the IOR website, which is coming up to its first anniversary in January.
Developing the network activities
Sam said: "Through the group, I have been lucky to meet some of the most dedicated and inspirational women in our industry. The group is always inclusive and big enough that there is always someone ready to help, and work with you on anything you may need. I very proud of us and what we have achieved so far, and know there is a lot more yet to come."
She added: "Given how busy and demanding the world of work is today, the joint role with Astrid is an exciting and creative solution that will allow us to share responsibilities and support each other in developing the network and expanding activities over the coming year."
WiRACHP podcast series
Other initiatives planned for next year include a networking forum for the group, being backed by Prado
Issues close to her heart include developing the group's recently launched monthly lunchtime meetings. Recent topics have covered Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for women, and the University of Bristol's collaboration with the Women's Engineering Society on research into better-fitting PPE for women; plus, the new Sexual Harassment at Work Regulations, which require employers to implement measures to safeguard staff from sexual harassment, including incidents involving third parties such as clients or customers.
Other initiatives planned for next year include a new networking platform for the group, being championed by Astrid Prado, training through the year, and a networking event in March, currently in the planning stage. The award-winning WiRACHP podcast series and blog will also be a focus.
Women in RACHP Network
Sam: "There is a lot going on, but a lot of our new ideas come thick and fast when we are together. I believe there is nothing this team cannot do, and I am looking forward to working with Astrid to see where the next chapter will take us."
The Women in RACHP Network now meets monthly, and has a members' WhatsApp group and LinkedIn channel with a growing list of followers.
new networking platform
What would she say to women working in the industry who have yet to get involved? "Come and join us, we are always delighted to welcome new members! You can connect with us via LinkedIn, and through our new networking platform when it launches. It's a great community to be part of, so why not join a team of people who have your interests at heart – and also want to learn from you?!"
Sam Buckell: “I believe there is nothing this team cannot do, and I’m looking forward to working with Astrid to see where the next chapter will take us."
