Hi Anita, tell us a bit about yourself - What do you do, how old are your children and what happens with your kids when you are at work?
I'm the Fashion Director at Harvey Nichols and my job entails travelling around the world buying the pre and main collections for our 7 UK stores. I have 3 girls aged 12, 10 and 4 and I'm lucky to have a wonderful husband who supports and encourages me in everything I do and a very reliable nanny.
1. One word to describe how being a WoMo makes you feel?
Secure
2. What’s the funniest experience you have had juggling kids and work?
I have gave the children the wrong lunch bag in the morning once. My youngest is a super fussy eater so went without food for the day as she refused to eat her sister's lunch!
3. What is the one piece of advice you could offer another WoMo?
Its so important to have the right balance for work and family.
4. What’s the least amount of sleep you’ve gone to work on and how did you cope?
I've been to work quite a few times with just a couple of hours sleep and it's tough but you get used to it.
5. What have you learned about yourself as a WoMo?
How organised I am ensuring our home runs smoothly and the children have their packed lunches etc...every day. I also need to keep a team of 60 people inspired, focused and on time with their planning etc..
6. If you had a working mother’s anthem or mantra, what would it be?
Life can be so short so achieve everything you desire from life and surround yourself with as many positive people as you can.
7. What is your guilty pleasure to combat WoMo guilt the best?
A glass of red wine.
8. Would you rather be dealing with a tantrum or presenting in a board meeting?
I don't mind either!
9. If you asked your children what your job is, what would they say (exact quotation if possible)?
My girls have been fortune enough to come to some shows at London Fashion Week and have also been in showrooms so they have a good idea of what I do. They all love fashion and how clothes can make you feel.
10. What’s the one thing you wish you’d known before you became a WoMo?
Get a much better balance with work and home life.
11. To date, what has been your best WoMo achievement?
I've worked from the shop floor up to one of the best jobs in the industry - So hard work and determination have prevailed.
12. What do you want to teach your kids about working mothers?
That they can achieve anything if they believe in themselves and visualise where and who they want to be.