Mothers in Business: Sam Chipperfield
March 4, 2025
In today’s dynamic business environment, working mothers bring unique perspectives, resilience and multitasking abilities to the workplace. By supporting and appreciating them, businesses foster a more inclusive culture and benefit from their enhanced productivity and creativity.
This March we are celebrating all the women here at Oxbow Partners for International Women’s Day 2025, and today we are hearing from one of our wonderful working mothers, Sam Chipperfield.
1 Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Sam
I am the Office Manager at Oxbow Partners
I have 2 Girls, age 9 & 10
2 What do your children think you do as a job?
A planner and organiser – accurate!
3 What were the biggest challenges you faced going back into the workplace after having children?
One of the biggest challenges I faced when returning to the workplace after having children was rejoining a company that didn’t fully understand the need for flexible working arrangements for parents. If given the flexibility, parents can reciprocate with dedication and hard work. Since leaving that company, I haven’t looked back and only wish I joined Oxbow Partners sooner.
4 How do you achieve the work/life balance between career woman and mother?
As a working mother, I’ve learned that hard work truly pays off. Flexibility is key, and it works both ways—when employers provide the flexibility needed to balance work and family, I respond with dedication and high performance. Oxbow Partners has shown me that it’s possible to excel in my career while also being there for my children.
5 What are your future goals/plans in the next few years?
I don’t tend to look too far ahead. I’m enjoying where I am now and appreciate how Oxbow Partners allows me to have the best of both worlds—fulfilling work and quality time with my children.
6 If you had the power to change one thing in the business market for working mothers, what would that be?
For all companies to adopt flexible working arrangements.
7 What’s the best piece of business advice you have been given?
Being told “you’re in charge” – this is not advice as such, but it has really empowered me because it emphasises personal responsibility and ownership and has allowed me to realise, I can make decisions & take initiative on my own. Whilst having children is amazing, it can hugely affect your confidence, especially when you return to work after being on maternity leave.
Those few words have helped me grow within my role and personally. It has encouraged me to be proactive, confident and accountable, which are essential qualities for success in any business environment.
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