Monday 27 October 2014 16:32, UK
Chelsea Ladies manager Emma Hayes insists events like Kick It Out’s Women’s Raise Your Game conference play a crucial role in helping more women land top jobs in football.
The 2014 event will take place at West Ham United’s Boleyn Ground on Tuesday and will feature one-to-one mentoring sessions, keynote speeches and a panel discussion.
FA head of women’s football Kelly Simmons and Sky Sports’ Sportswomen producer Anna Edwards are among those speaking at the free event encouraging women to explore employment opportunities across the game.
And Hayes, currently the only manager in the top-flight of women’s football in England, is proud to play a part in the 2014 conference, following the success of last year’s event at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.
“I take great pride in attending the event on behalf of an organisation that I’m more than happy to help grow,” Hayes told Sky Sports.” It’s an opportunity for me to be a part of in something I believe in.
“I hope this will continue to be an annual event where females involved in the game are able to attend and connect with people at the top of end the game, who can pass on the necessary experiences so that we can get more females into top jobs in football in this country.
“I think it’s important, being in the position I am, to pass on experience and guidance to young coaches that are coming through the ranks in the same way that many have done for me throughout my career.
“I hope I can help find the next top young English coach at the conference and support them on their journey. My goal has always been to help as many people as I can in the game.”
West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady is delighted to support an event which she believes is invaluable for women who aspire to work in football.
“At West Ham United we are proud of our association with Kick It Out and the many initiatives they undertake including the upcoming Women’s Raise Your Game event,” she said
“Progress has been made where women working in football is concerned but there is still much to be done in terms of increasing female representation at senior management level. I want to see more women on boards to help shape and run sport in this country.
“That is why events like this and all the good work of Kick It Out and Women in Football is vital to encourage and support women into the industry.
“Raise Your Game will provide a great opportunity for those looking to get into jobs in coaching, media, or club management and administration, and also to get free mentoring and genuine insight from women already established in football.”
