#LeadingWithPurpose Spotlight: Angela Halliday, Director of Social Impact at Sodexo UK&I

Our #LeadingWithPurpose Spotlight interview series sees organisational leaders explain what leading with purpose means to them and how they strive to make their organisation a force for good in society.

In this episode, read how Angela Halliday, Director of Social Impact at Sodexo UK & Ireland, does so.

Angela, what inspires you personally to lead with purpose? 

Throughout my career in both civil society and the corporate environment, each of my roles has always been deep-rooted in purpose.

By leading on strategies for supporting long-term unemployed and those in poverty, to having operational responsibility for those in prison custody, and their families.

My experience has given me first hand insight into the challenges faced by those in our communities and underpins my determination to ensure all that I [we] do, is done with the sole purpose of improving lives, circumstances, communities; creating opportunities for all. 

And can you share a story or moment that shaped your own leadership? 

I have always been fuelled since I can remember by leveraging my personal commitment in support of others, and where my role lends itself to do more for others.

My actions, influence, and guidance for other coalesces with not just what we can do, but why we do what we do - help individuals not only thrive professionally but to unlock their own belief in what they can achieve. 

How do you find purpose in your work? 

Breaking down barriers is something I am particularly passionate about. I believe that we cannot wait for change; but instead, we must be the change. 

In our communities, especially in areas of high deprivation, there are untapped talents and abilities. I strongly believe Talent comes from all walks of life; everyone has a contribution to society if they are only given the opportunity to do so. 

I am energised by working with others on this topic, understanding their motives, ambitions, and ability to do social good.

This is particularly rewarding where tangible action is taken in removing barriers to employment be this educational attainment, socioeconomic, or cultural – everyone deserves a door to be opened for them regardless of their background.

My role focuses on how best to connect individuals and businesses to ways in which they can go further, go deeper in creating an impactful, equitable approach to leaving a lasting legacy for society. 

This of course comes with challenges - balancing business growth and purpose can often seem like a delicate balance, but it is one that I strong believe can be achieved with the right intention.

Purpose and profit are not mutually exclusive. By aligning business strategies with a clear sense of purpose, sustainable growth can be meaningful, impactful, and tangible. This leads to a win:win situation for the business, individuals, communities, and our economy!