Opinion: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together

I passionately believe in actively supporting initiatives such as this, both in my capacity as a ‘fellow woman’ and as a business leader.

As a chief executive, two of my key principles align with the objectives of Be Inspired.

The first is diversity, which I firmly believe is a vital component of good business.

In my experience, there are huge benefits to gain from embracing diversity as a business – the debates and decisions that surface from the challenges of a diverse team are more powerful.

Accordingly, ensuring that there is broad representation in age, ethnicity, socio-economic background, education and – of particular pertinence on this topic – gender throughout organisations generates more comprehensive debates and more balanced decisions. Obviously at the leadership level, but also all through the organisation.

This is certainly not a process of simply ticking boxes or achieving quotas. It is, crucially, about ensuring that internal processes and decision making actively promote, nurture and reward the challenge and obstacles of working in a diverse workplace.

The second key way that the Be Inspired campaign aligns with my business principles is in its championing of the power of working together in collaboration.

One of my favourite sayings is an African proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” We are simply not as powerful on our own as we are when we combine our diverse skills, experiences and energy.

I also believe that women have a unique way of helping each other, and a responsibility to do so. I would argue that, despite common discussion of boys’ clubs, women are often by nature sociable and collaborative, and therefore networking is a practice that comes naturally to many – albeit by no means all – women.

Seeking advice, listening to others’ experiences, offering support, and finding new and wonderful solutions are all foundations of good networking, and these are areas that I believe women can, and should, truly excel in.

Retail Week’s Be Inspired campaign should be a win-win for us all. By providing a network and platform for women – and men – to work together to debate the issues, shine a light on the barriers, and find creative, mutual solutions, it will be good for women – our friends, mentees, daughters – and good for business too.

• Meg Lustman is chief executive of Hobbs

• Retail Week’s Be Inspired campaign is designed to promote the careers of the next generation of women retail leaders. You can find more information and details on how to get involved by clicking here: retail-week.com/beinspired