I am… Francis Highton, Events Manager at Women Ahead and Moving Ahead

I’ve been… rowing full time at Leander Club in Henley-on-Thames for the past four years trying to break into the GB Senior Rowing Team. Despite several successes along the way, my physiology always limited my overall progress, and I developed an injury in 2016. As a result, I have decided to step away from full-time pursuit of that goal, but continue to row and train more recreationally – it is part of me now, after eight years of the sport! In August 2017, I will part of a team that will row 1,000km down the Kafue River in Zambia to raise money for Village Water.

I graduated from Durham University with a BA in geography, and remained there for a further year to complete an MA in Risk and Security (International Relations). After moving to Leander Club and Henley, I have been working part-time as Duty Manager at the Regal Picturehouse Cinema.

Women Ahead and Moving Ahead… represent the forward thinking and proactive changing times. It has never been a better time to promote initiatives like the 30% Club, Women in Finance Charter and Athlete Transition Network.  Events, workshops and talks, run effectively through our company, can provide inspiration and promote learning to a wider audience.

I bring…  enthusiasm and excitement as I step away from full-time sport and transition to the world of work. I am excited to learn and grow and look forward to taking on new challenges.

Email me at : francis@moving-ahead.org