Breakthrough with Claire Camara - Evolve. Empower. Advocate.

In this new series, we ask our people to define what 'Breakthrough' means to them, both from a career standpoint and a personal note.

This issue features Claire Camara, Chief People Officer, EssenceMediacom.

What does ‘breakthrough’ mean to you?

The world has changed so much during my lifetime that for me breakthrough means ever evolving and reshaping so many old habits to stay relevant within a world that is constantly changing. For me the word breakthrough within the context of my role is how do we ensure we find ways that create the environment and tools which support everyone to deliver their very best work.

What’s been the most inspiring personal breakthrough in your life?

I have many but I suppose my most personal is the fact that I am very rarely as a black woman in the majority in a room within the workplace and so every time I step into a new space as one of a few I feel it is a breakthrough and a path set for those who may follow.

What was the breakthrough moment in your career?

My breakthrough moment was when I was courageous enough to stand alone for something that was not right in one of the organisations I worked in then find I actually changed something quite profoud within the organisation. I look back and see the changes that I started still taking effect today. Tough as it was I am forever grateful that I was heard and that leadership responded tough as it was for all. We have changed things for the better there.

Tell us about a piece of work you were involved with that you would define as a breakthrough.

I think the work that I did at the Co-op creating a levy matching scheme which to date has £26m pledged through untapped funds thus creating new opportunities.

What breakthrough in this industry - achieved by someone else - do you really admire? What do you admire about it?

The most incredible is of course AI – I love our em sidekick and wish I had the brainpower to create something as incredible. It has changed the way I think which is fantastic. I love how it stimulates my thinking real time.