Bossing It – Women Empowering Women

As part of our celebrations for Women’s History Month, we spoke to some of the incredible alumnae mentors from our annual Womentoring programme for this special edition of ‘Bossing It.’ These industry leaders have offered their top career insights to empower the next generation of Cardiff alumnae.

Rachel Rawlings (BA 2008)

Rachel, Head of Product at Trustify, brings over 15 years’ experience in insurance and finance. She drives customer-focused outcomes, sustainable growth, and future product leadership and serves as Vice-Chair of Goleudy, a Welsh housing charity.

Give yourself permission to change direction

Early in my career, I believed that every move had to be upwards and irreversible. The reality has been far messier – and far more interesting! I’ve changed industries, stepped sideways, and even taken roles that looked like a step back on paper. Each time, I gained sharper insight into what energises me and what drains me. My biggest growth didn’t come from rigidly sticking to a plan, but from paying attention to what I was learning about myself. If something isn’t working, you don’t need to justify staying. Giving yourself permission to change direction can be the most strategic decision you make.

Leticia Korin-Moore (BA 2006)

Leticia is the Managing Director at SBW, one of the leading integrated marketing and advertising agencies in Wales and the Southwest. A CIM Chartered Marketer for the past 12 years she has nearly 20 years’ comms experience.

Nurture the relationships you make throughout your career

Originally from Brazil, I moved to Wales to study in a new country and language, before beginning my career as an advertising junior executive. I worked my way through every level to become agency managing director, and relationships were the constant at every step. The people who believed in me, and took the time to guide me, made all the difference. Good people lift you, challenge you and help you grow. I’ve learned it’s progress, not perfection, that moves you forward. So, stay curious, ask questions, make mistakes, and nurture the relationships that make you feel brave. They’ll take you further than you think.

Hannah Williams (BSc 2014)

Hannah is Deputy Senior Manager and Head of New Business Development at Sony UK Technology Centre. With over 10 years’ experience across Sony divisions, she leads global projects, drives strategic partnerships, and inspires teams – shaping vision and growth through leadership and innovation.

Say Yes to Opportunity

Some of the most important steps in my career came from saying yes to opportunities that pushed me beyond my comfort zone, including moving between procurement, project management and new business development. Each experience broadened my perspective and strengthened my confidence as a leader. Early in your career, you don’t need a perfect plan or have everything mapped out. Growth often comes from unexpected challenges that help you build relationships, develop new skills, and understand how organisations really work. When an opportunity appears, take it seriously and be willing to stretch yourself. Even if something feels unfamiliar, it may be the very experience that shapes your future path.

Sophie Wint (BSc 2008)

Sophie is the Director of Finance at Hedyn, where she leads strategic financial planning, treasury, and procurement. A passionate advocate for social housing, she drives cultural change and challenges the status quo to deliver lasting impact while ensuring financial sustainability.

Bring your true self to work

Reflecting on my career, my number one tip to anyone starting out today would be to be authentic and bring your true self to work. I think there can be a perception early in your career that being professional means fitting into a defined set of behaviours and expectations; however, it’s things like your personal values, lived experiences, passion and enthusiasm that will set you apart and allow you to add value through your work, so don’t be afraid to let them shine through and think about how you can apply them to what you love.

Ready to connect with fellow Cardiff alumni? Join our LinkedIn group and get networking.