Getting to know... Samantha Addy

In a feature looking at the person behind the business profile, Samantha Addy, chief executive of the Female Advisory Board, talks about her career journey, how she unwinds and her childhood dreams of playing for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. 

We know you as the chief executive of the Female Advisory Board (FAB), but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I’m ambitious and curious.

I've never accepted being told something is impossible simply because it’s challenging or different. 

I love to create and build things that have a positive impact.

Did you always want to work in the executive consultancy/leadership development sector?

No – I truly believe some things are mapped out for you. 

I had no idea I was going to create FAB, but it came at a time when I was looking for my next venture. 

I’ve had a unique career, from running my own restaurant business to working in senior operations/consultancy roles and helping facilitate growth for businesses of various sizes.

That journey led me to create the Female Advisory Board. 

It started with a very simple vision to create an equal business landscape with more female-led businesses, by building an alliance of like-minded leaders who are empowered to encourage, inspire and learn from each other through shared experiences. 

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst? 

The best bit is seeing the difference FAB is having on its members and the alliance being formed.

The worst is realising FAB can’t be for everyone (not yet anyway). 

FAB is purpose-led and has a big vision, but this can’t be done without a strategic approach directly aimed at high-growth business leaders. 

There are so many of them under the radar, we need to see them, know they are there and hopefully inject ambition into other women to be inspired.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

Aside from my children, it has to be creating FAB. 

Amazing business leaders are taking a leap of faith in me to create an environment for them to feel supported, encouraged and to build their consortium of knowledge to realise the best version of themselves and their businesses. 

How do you relax outside of work? 

I love planning and travelling to new places and experiencing different cultures. 

It really boosts your creativity and is brilliant for head space. I also love reading, and I’ve just started gardening, which is new but very relaxing. And I love all kinds of food. 

What makes the North such a great place to live and work? 

There is definitely a strong work ethic in the North, born out of grit and determination.

I’m very fortunate to live in the beautiful countryside.

I’m originally from Newcastle and find Geordie and Yorkshire folk genuine and straight talking, and they usually have a sense of warmth and friendliness too. 

I get the best of both worlds where I work.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know…

When I was ten, I wanted to be the lead flautist playing for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall. 

I used to be really good; however, I haven’t played since I was 13.

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