In a week marked by International Women's Day, which brings together not only a celebration of the achievements made by women throughout history, but also a series of challenges that we as a society still have to face - and where sport is no exception - the Thinking Football Summit sought to hear from women in leading positions in sport, to learn about their stories, reflections and challenges.

Vicky Jaycock's journey into the world of football took several stages, in different areas, she told Thinking Football Summit. In all of them, Vicky says she came across women of excellence:

“With over 15 years of experience in commercial roles across stadia and entertainment venues, I have enjoyed a fast paced career experiencing some incredible projects. Collaborating with leading female professionals in design, construction, architecture, and throughout commercial roles. Now, leading the premium sales at Everton Stadium I had the opportunity to build a diverse sales team around me to deliver the vision of football experiences that appeal to all”.

At Everton, she had the opportunity to 'reinvent' the traditional concept of 'corporate hospitality', with "incredible" results:

“Through the creation of ALL. Everton Stadium has presented a revolutionary reset of traditional ‘ corporate hospitality’. Matchday experiences have been designed to appeal to all fans. Working with Forward Associates, we have brought together great bars, restaurants and experiences that mirror what fans and visitors enjoy in their lifestyles and social trends. Demand has been incredible with seasonal memberships appealing to a wide profile of families, businesses, and groups of friends”.

Vicky Jaycock explains that Everton's new stadium, expected to open in 2025, it’s an infrastructure designed from an ideal of inclusion and equity:

“I feel this extends beyond the infrastructure, the culture to welcome all fans should be embedded through entire project. Everton is proud to officially partner with #HerGameToo, a fan-led campaign working to make attending games safer for women and girls.  Our new home has been designed in consultation with fans from all backgrounds, but particularly, those who are part of our Everton Disabled Supporters Association.

The infrastructure within the Stadium caters for many groups and includes having male, female and gender-neutral bathrooms, multi-faith rooms and changing facilities for parents with and those with disabilities. Alongside all this will be a purpose-built sensory facility.”