Share an experience or challenge that has shaped you? One experience that truly shaped me was leaving my corporate banking career after over 20 years in the industry. On paper, I had everything I was supposed to want — the role, the recognition, the steady path upward. But inside, I felt disconnected. I was constantly “on,” juggling deadlines and responsibilities, yet something was missing.
The turning point came when I realised I had spent so much time mentoring others — and genuinely loving it — but wasn’t giving myself that same support or space to grow. Stepping away wasn’t easy; it meant letting go of a clear identity and embracing the unknown. But that choice led me to retrain as a coach and eventually set up the Female Mentoring Alliance.
That challenge taught me the power of listening to your inner voice, even when it’s quiet and uncertain. It showed me that change doesn’t have to be dramatic to be transformational — and that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is admit you're ready for something more.
Best piece of advice you have ever been given? The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is this: Don’t fight change — it’s inevitable. Instead, learn to lean into it. Resisting change only creates more tension and uncertainty, but when you embrace it, even the most unexpected shifts can lead to growth, clarity, and new opportunities.
What advice would you give to your younger self or a woman just starting her career? Trust yourself more than you think you can. You don’t need to have it all figured out right away — your career is a journey, not a straight line. Say yes to the things that excite you, even if they scare you a little. Speak up, even when your voice shakes. And remember, you are allowed to take up space, to change your mind, and to want more.
Surround yourself with people who lift you, seek out mentors, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most of all, know that you are enough — right now — even as you learn, grow, and evolve.
What does success mean to you? Success, to me, is about living in alignment with who I am — not just what I do. It’s feeling proud of how I show up in the world, having a positive impact on others, and creating space for balance, joy, and purpose. It’s the ability to make choices that reflect my values, to grow through challenges, and to support others in doing the same.
It’s not about ticking boxes or chasing titles — it’s about feeling fulfilled, connected, and confident in the direction I’m heading, both in work and in life.
How do you handle challenges and changes? What's in your toolkit? When faced with challenge or change, I try to pause before reacting. I’ve learned that clarity often comes when I give myself space to reflect, rather than rushing to fix or control everything. My toolkit includes self-awareness, journaling, and asking myself powerful questions — What do I know for sure? What’s in my control? Who can I lean on?
I also rely on my values as a compass, especially when things feel uncertain. Connection is key — whether that’s speaking to a mentor, grounding myself through coaching tools, or simply talking things through with someone I trust. And I’ve learned to trust my intuition more and more; it usually knows the answer before my head catches up.
Change is never easy, but I’ve come to see it as an invitation — not a threat — to grow, shift, and step into something new.
Why is it important to support women in business and women-led business? Supporting women in business — and women-led businesses — is about more than equality; it’s about unlocking potential, broadening perspectives, and creating a more balanced, inclusive future. When women are supported, businesses benefit from diverse thinking, empathetic leadership, and innovative solutions.
Women often lead with collaboration, purpose, and resilience — but too often, they face barriers, self-doubt, or a lack of visible role models. By championing women, we help shift the narrative, build confidence, and create environments where women can thrive, lead authentically, and make their mark. It’s not just good for women — it’s good for everyone.
60 Seconds with Jess Harvey
My inspiration is: My inspiration is the women who show up every day — even when it’s hard — with courage, compassion, and a quiet determination to make things better. The ones who question the status quo, lift others as they rise, and stay true to themselves even in spaces that weren’t built for them.
I’m inspired by women who lead with heart, who create change from the inside out, and who remind us all that success can look different — and still be powerful.
My greatest fear is: My greatest fear is playing small out of fear of failure — holding back my voice, my ideas, or my ambitions because I’m worried about getting it wrong. I never want to look back and realise I let self-doubt, perfectionism, or other people’s expectations define what I could become.
That fear pushes me to keep growing, to take up space, and to help other women do the same — because we all deserve to live and lead fully, not cautiously.
The most courageous thing I have ever done is: The most courageous thing I have ever done is walk away from a successful corporate career to start again — on my terms. It meant letting go of the certainty, identity, and structure I’d built over years, and stepping into the unknown with nothing but a sense that there had to be more.
It wasn’t just a career change — it was a personal transformation. Choosing to back myself, trust my instincts, and build a path that felt aligned, not expected, has been the bravest (and most rewarding) decision I’ve ever made.
I am most proud of: I am most proud of my son — the kind, thoughtful young man he is becoming. He’s respectful, grounded, and carries himself with quiet confidence. Watching him grow into someone who treats others with care and stands true to his values fills me with more pride than any title or achievement ever could.
Guiltless pleasure: Anything on Hayu. I absolutely love reality TV — there’s something strangely comforting and endlessly entertaining about diving into the drama, the glamour, and the unscripted chaos. It’s my way to switch off, unwind, and enjoy something purely for fun. No guilt, just joy.
Mantra I live by: "What if I fall? Oh, but darling, what if you fly?"
This quote has stayed with me through moments of doubt and change. It reminds me to challenge the fear of failure and to imagine what’s possible instead. I even have a feather tattooed on me as a symbol of that belief — a gentle reminder to trust the leap, because I just might soar.
Female role model: My female role model is my Grandma Olive. She was the quiet matriarch of our family — the person everyone turned to. Starting work at just 14, she embodied resilience, warmth, and wisdom. She lived a simple life, but one filled with kindness, spontaneity, and grace. There was something magical about the way she made people feel seen and valued — always polite, always present. Her strength wasn’t loud, but it was deeply felt, and she continues to inspire me in how I lead, live, and show up for others.
Women-led brand I love: A women-led brand I love is Stripe & Stare. There’s something about their mix of comfort and understated femininity that just hits the spot. Their pieces feel soft, joyful, and effortlessly wearable — and yes, knowing I’ve got strawberries on my pants genuinely makes me smile. It’s that perfect blend of playful and empowering, reminding me that confidence can start with the little things no one else sees.
