Webinar: The Progression Gap – New research on women’s career barriers in Retail & CPG

Missed the live event or want to revisit this important conversation? You can now access the full webinar recording below. Watch as our experts delve into the findings of our latest research report, Built for All: Rethinking Career Advancement in Retail & CPG, sharing industry specific insights, and suggesting practical solutions to drive meaningful change in your organisation.

Watch the full webinar recording​

New research into the barriers women face in Retail and CPG

Despite ongoing commitment to gender equity, women in Retail and CPG continue to face systemic barriers that policy alone cannot fix.

So, what’s really getting in the way – and where should leaders focus next?

Shape Talent, in partnership with LEAD Network, invites you to watch this 2026 webinar where they released new research on women’s career progression in Retail and CPG.

Grounded in our Three Barriers® Model and a scientifically validated survey, this study drew on insights from professionals across the industry. It provides a clear, comparative view of how gender shapes experience, confidence, and progression at work.

Watch the full webinar recording

Meet the speakers

Hear directly from the experts behind the research and gain practical insight into what the findings mean for your organisation.

 

Headshot of Sharon Peake
Sharon Peake – Founder & CEO, Shape Talent
Sharon is an experienced diversity and talent management leader with over 20 years’ experience in global businesses. She is the Founder and CEO of Shape Talent, a multi award-winning consultancy specialising in diversity, equity and inclusion for multinational organisations.
Headshot of Priscila Pereira
Priscila Pereira – Director of Research and Innovation, Shape Talent
Priscila is a co-author of this research and a recognised expert in Gender Equity, Learning & Development, and Human Resources. She holds a PhD in Gender & Work-Life Performance from Oxford Brookes University and brings a wealth of experience and deep subject-matter expertise to this work.
Headshot of Allyson Zimmermann
Allyson Zimmermann – CEO, LEAD Network
Allyson and LEAD Network focus on advancing gender equity and inclusion within the retail and consumer goods sector. Allyson is a recognised authority in equity and inclusion and was shortlisted for the Diversity Champion of the Year award at the European Diversity Awards in 2022.
Headshot of Sarah McGowen
Sarah McGowen – Strategic Research & Learning Advisor, LEAD Network
Sarah is a co-author of this research and has partnered with leaders for over 25 years to build thriving cultures and develop people who create value as they grow. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Executive Leadership at Clemson University, building on her MBA from Boston College and a Master’s in Human Resources from Michigan State University.

Watch the full webinar recording

Next steps for your organisation

If you are a DEI or People leader in Retail and CPG, explore our webinar to learn how these findings can inform a targeted approach to advancing gender equity.

Want to dive deeper and gain strategic insights for your organisation? Download our full report, Built for All: Rethinking Career Advancement in Retail & CPG, and take the next step toward fostering equitable workplaces in your industry.

STAY UPDATED