Our Advisory Group
We are lead by our directors and supported in governance, strategy and insight by our Advisory Group.
Drawing on diverse expertise across business, public and third sectors, the group supports the Directors to strengthen impact, broaden influence and accelerate progress towards a more inclusive, equitable business landscape across Bristol.
““I am really excited to be able to support the next stage of growth and impact of the Charter and bringing a new and diverse range of voices within in this Advisory Group to help shape that. There is momentum building but still a lot to be done to to truly embrace diversity, increase representation, and empower women to thrive in their careers - and in doing that, strengthen the regional economy!””
Photo credit: Bath Spa University
Nick Sturge MBE
Nick Sturge MBE is an experienced non-executive director and strategic adviser with over 40 years in the tech and innovation sector. He co-founded Motion Media Technology, grew Bristol SETsquared into the world’s leading university business incubator, and founded Engine Shed to support inclusive regional growth.
Awarded an MBE for services to the digital economy, Nick brings deep expertise in leadership, governance and economic development.
Chair
Charlotte Phillips
Charlotte Phillips has built her career in technology recruitment, where she led a Women in Tech network and championed diversity and inclusion. She now works with Neighbourly, an impact-led giving platform connecting businesses with local charities.
Charlotte brings strengths in business development, partnerships and relationship management, underpinned by a strong commitment to DEI.
Laura Aiken
Laura Aiken is a consultant and executive coach who supports leaders and organisations to build cultures of care that enable wellbeing, equity and performance.
With a background in engineering and lived experience of burnout, she works internationally across engineering, energy and finance sectors.
Laura brings expertise in culture change, resilience and inclusive leadership.
Megan Belcher
Megan Belcher is Director of Bristol Disability Equality Forum (BDEF) and Vice Chair of the Bristol Disability Equality Commission. A Disabled woman with extensive experience across community development, equity and inclusion, and adult social care, Megan centres lived experience in her leadership approach.
She also chairs the Bristol Disabled Organisation Network and serves as a trustee of Eastside Community Trust.
Sandra Meadows
Sandra Meadows MBE, FRSA is a principal consultant, executive coach and company director with extensive experience in inclusive leadership and organisational development.
She is Chair of the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) and Independent Chair of the BNSSG VCSE Mental Health Alliance.
Sandra is a passionate advocate for strengthening pathways for underrepresented women into leadership roles.
Zoe Slater-Peters
Zoe Slater is a senior HR professional with experience across hospitality, the public sector and professional sport.
She specialises in people strategy, organisational change and improving employee experience in fast-paced environments.
Zoe is passionate about mentoring, equitable career progression and supporting businesses to embed sustainable, inclusive practices.
Advisory Group members and Charter Directors: Sandra Meadows, Megan Belcher, Kristal McNamara, Nick Sturge, Sophie Joyce, Charlotte Phillips, Laura Aiken, Zoe Slater, Sandra Gordon. Jan 26 First group meeting.
Sophie Joyce
Sophie Joyce is a communications and marketing leader with experience across multiple sectors, including senior roles within some of Bristol’s largest private companies.
Formerly Head of Internal Communications at Hargreaves Lansdown, she specialises in purpose-led communications that engage stakeholders and build strong organisational culture.
Sophie has a particular interest in workplace support through key life transitions.
Purpose of the Advisory Group
The Bristol Women in Business Charter Advisory Group was launched in January 2026 and exists to provide strategic guidance, insight and advocacy as the Charter enters its next phase of growth.
Advisory Group members act as champions for the Charter, helping to connect organisations, share best practice and ensure the lived experiences of Bristol’s diverse business community inform our work.