Celebrating International Women's Day

With International Women’s Day coming up on Sunday, we caught up with our Group Head of HR Bibijanca to find out more about her role at Buckhurst and what International Women’s Day means to her.

What does a typical day at Buckhurst Group entail for you?

"A typical day at Buckhurst Group is never truly “typical”, and that’s exactly what I love about it. Every day is different. Being the only HR professional across a group of companies means the role is fast‑paced, hands‑on, and incredibly varied.

"One week I might be travelling the breadth of the UK, meeting teams on the ground and supporting managers with people‑focused challenges. The next, I could be planning learning and development initiatives, shaping policy, or driving forward long‑term cultural priorities. The variety keeps me energised, and no two days ever look the same, which is what makes the role so rewarding."

What do you like most about your job?

"What I love most about my job is the variety, no two days ever look the same. I get to work with amazing people across the business, and there’s real joy in supporting them, watching them grow, and helping them achieve success in their roles."

Why did you join Buckhurst Group?

"I joined Buckhurst Group because I knew it would be a challenge, and I thrive on challenge. I was excited by the opportunity to make a real impact and help shape the HR function from the ground up. What truly drew me in, though, was the company’s reputation as a genuine family business, one that truly cares for its people and invests in their growth. That combination of purpose, potential, and strong values made it the perfect fit."

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

"The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always give 100 percent. You truly get out what you put in, and consistent effort does pay off. Showing up fully, not just in results, but in attitude, integrity, and commitment, has shaped my career more than anything else."

What advice would you give to other women looking into a career in HR?

"My advice is to do your research, because HR is incredibly broad with many unique specialisms. You can’t be a master of everything, but building solid knowledge is key. Find the area that genuinely excites you and connect with people who share that passion."

What message would you share with women who aspire to senior positions?

"Don’t give up, in life you get plenty of knockbacks, but you need to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep going, believe in you and your ability, it will happen."

What does International Women’s Day mean to you as a leader in HR?

"International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate the incredible achievements of women over the decades. As an HR leader, it reminds me that real equality requires deliberate, not accidental, effort. It’s about truly listening to what women want, recognising the power and perspective they bring, and being unafraid to challenge the norms that hold progress back."

What challenges still exist for women in the workplace, and how can organisations address them meaningfully?

"Women still face challenges in getting a seat at the table, especially when outdated views persist. In HR, for example, the role is sometimes still seen as admin, when it’s actually a strategic, business‑critical function at the heart of every organisation.

"To drive real change, organisations must challenge old assumptions, value women’s expertise, and ensure their voices are heard in the rooms where decisions are made.

"Meaningful inclusion starts with recognising the impact women have and making sure they’re part of shaping the future."

Interesting in joining our incredible team? Check out our Careers page