Our Leading Ladies series, proudly sponsored by Robertson Construction Tayside, shines a spotlight on some of the nation’s most inspiring and influential female leaders. Through engaging conversation and personal insight, we explore their career journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

More than just a celebration of female success, this series is designed to inspire audiences across the business community - from emerging professionals to the region’s most senior leaders. Our Leading Ladies share experiences that resonate far beyond industry or role, offering honest reflections, practical advice and fresh perspectives on leadership, resilience and ambition.

This event will feature a keyote from Kath Mainland before she's joined by Ewa Rankin (Malmaison) and Sonja Nowicki (Dundee Museum of Transport) for a dynamic panel Q&A session, giving attendees the opportunity to hear first-hand stories, ask questions and gain insights from women who continue to shape and influence the business landscape.

Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking event as we celebrate leadership, share experiences and learn from our remarkable Leading Ladies.

About Kath Mainland: 
Kath M Mainland CBE is an internationally respected arts leader with more than 20 years’ experience leading major cultural organisations in the UK and Australia. She joins Dundee Rep Theatre as Executive Director in 2025, following a decade in Australia where she held senior roles including Chief Executive of Adelaide Festival, Executive Director and co-CEO of RISING Melbourne, and Chief Executive of Melbourne International Arts Festival.

Originally from Orkney, Mainland began her career in Scotland and previously served as Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and Administrative Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Known for her collaborative and transformational leadership style, she was awarded a CBE for services to culture in Scotland in 2014.

Q&A Panellists: 
Ewa Rankin, Malmaison Dundee 

Sonja Nowicki, Dundee Museum of Transport

Event Series Sponsor: