This International Women's Day we're celebrating all of the fantastic females working across both the Club and the Foundation.
We'd like to introduce you to some of the Foundation staff who give some insight into their roles and what it's like to be a female working in sport.
If you're interested in working with The Albion Foundation, click here to view opportunities.
Caitlin Carnegie, Disability Sports Coach
"I'm a disability sports coach in the wellbeing department. This involves me going into SEN schools delivering PE lessons that all can access and enjoy and coaching two PANS teams with regular football fixtures.
Comparing my childhood experience of often being the only girl competing in sport it's incredible how much visibility and opportunity has changed for women's sport. Teams like the Lionesses are now household names and are dominating media attention. I’m hopeful to see more women in positions of power in sports roles and see more diversity and representation in a traditionally male-dominated industry."
Lauren Affron, Head of People & ETC Strategic Lead
"Leading on areas that impact our local community gives me the drive to make positive change to people of all backgrounds. Days like International Women's Day allow us to showcase the female representation that we have at WBA and The Albion Foundation. This is crucial to help us challenge people's perceptions within a male-dominated environment and it's good for young people to see women in a variety of positions across the Football Club and Foundation."
Rebecca Jennings, Executive Assistant
"I have worked at The Albion Foundation since 2003. I started as Office Manager and worked matchdays with mascots, stadium tours and I also looked after Junior Baggies. After having children, I returned part-time and focused solely on Finance. I lived in New Zealand for a year in 2022, and upon my return I became Rob’s (Director of The Albion Foundation) Executive Assistant whereby I also oversee Finance. I have always loved working at The Foundation and being part of a charitable trust."
Katie Grainger, U19 Female Programme Lead & ETC Player Development Lead
"I am responsible for leading the Female Sandwell College football programme and girls’ development, with a focus on establishing and fostering girls' football in the local area. My role also involves facilitating pathways for girls to connect with grassroots clubs and the Emerging Talent Centre. Being a female in a traditionally male-dominated field like sports can involve overcoming stereotypes and biases, but it also presents opportunities to be a trailblazer, contribute diverse perspectives, and inspire positive change in the industry."
Jayne Norton, Events Co Ordinator
"I have worked for The Albion Foundation for the past six years. Although I have worked in many departments I currently work within the Events team. Here I oversee Fundraising, the Patron Club and some Partnerships and Events. Although I’m the only female in the team this doesn’t stop me. I love having a different perspective on things and being able put my spin on ideas. I thoroughly enjoy my job."
Lauren Holden, Health, Wellbeing & Fitness Coach
"Doing the job I do within the community, you meet some truly inspiring people on a day-to-day basis. The impact you’re having on someone’s life no matter how big or small is massive to them. Working in a heavily male-dominated industry is a blur when you're having such a successful impact on someone!"