Georgia's mission to inspire women

THE woman who is leading the installation of full-fibre broadband across the UK has spoken of the need for more avenues and options for career women from the South West.

- CLARE AINSWORTH

Georgia Grimes, 38, who comes from Saltash, leads a team of 8,000 workers in her position as Director of Fibre Build at Openreach.

Speaking ahead of International Women's Day, she encouraged young people to take advantage of the opportunities they have in education, not only to learn but also to develop as leaders of innovation. She said: "Putting your hand up in school is the first step towards having the confidence to speak out in the boardroom. School isn't just about getting grades, it's also about determination and developing a positive mindset."

Georgia studied for A-levels at Saltash Community School before going on to study business at the University of Bath. Now, she is running the multi-million rollout of a major infrastructure project while raising her two daughters, aged six and 18 months.