From a small village in the Welsh valleys of the United Kingdom, Julia started her career in London but has worked in the USA as well. Her training with the British Royal Air Force, in flight physiology, led her next to Saudi Arabia. Here, she set up the first neonatal/pediatric flight team in Saudi Aramco. Alongside her work, she also completed her MBA in healthcare management from Harvard Business School. In 2011, she moved to Bahrain and has been in the hospital’s leadership ever since.
From bolstering medical technology and clinical services in Manama to overseeing the opening of new branches in Amwaj, Riffa, expansion in Saar, design and launch of the new King Hamad American Mission Hospital.
Reflecting on your journey as a woman leader, what are some key lessons you have learned along the way?
I’d say the main lesson I’ve learned is never to let anything or anybody tell you that you can’t achieve something. If it’s your dream and something that you’re very passionate about – follow your dreams.
You have to be very confident in your abilities. You may face doubts and challenges but if you believe in yourself, and in your ability to succeed, you will surely succeed.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing women in the workplace today, and how do you see us overcoming them?
I believe that the challenges faced by women in leadership positions 10-20 years ago are no longer as prevalent. This is because many key executive positions are now held by women. Change has happened, and it has been for the better. I believe that there is now much more equality in the workplace.
What inspires you to continue breaking barriers and achieving new heights in your career?
For me, the day I stop being inspired and looking for new challenges is the day my career is over. You’re always writing the next chapter of your book. The day you stop writing is the day your book is finished.
What message of hope and empowerment would you like to share with young girls and women around the world on this International Women’s Day?
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams. Growing up in a small town, someone told me to stay put, that I wasn’t meant for bigger things. But I refused to listen and was determined to make my dreams a reality.
When I was thinking of moving to London to pursue my training, someone told me, “No, you’re born, you marry, you die here.” Those words motivated me to prove them wrong.
And so I did. I moved to London, I trained hard, and I eventually achieved my dreams. I became a successful leader in my field, and I’ve been able to travel the world and inspire others to follow their dreams as well.
