Our evolution
2011
Two people. One conviction.
LEAD Network founded in the Netherlands to do what no one in Europe was doing: build gender-equity leadership in CPG & Retail.
2014
First hire. Rapid scale.
Europe’s largest and fastest-growing workplace inclusion organisation, launching initiatives that raise the industry standard from day one.
2015+
Chapters begin to launch. The movement spreads.
From Türkiye outward — local chapters take root, bringing the mission into boardrooms across Europe. Membership Membership triples in two years.
2023
From movement to institution.
Allyson Zimmermann brings workplace inclusion expertise to LEAD Network’s reach — with a central team growing to 25 and the professionalisation of programmes, advocacy, and industry voice.
2024
Royal recognition. 13 years in the making.
Co-founders Mick and Helayne appointed Knights in the Order of Orange-Nassau by King Willem-Alexander. 13 years of impact, formally recognised.
2025
Mission-driven. Now commercially structured.
Incorporation unlocks fee-for-service offerings, with five launched Learning Programmes, a refreshed website, and Sweden joining as the first Nordic Chapter.
2026
One movement. All #DoingNotTrying.
30,000+ members. 60+ partners. 19 chapters across 13 countries from Türkiye to Ireland. What started with two people is now Europe’s defining force for gender equity in CPG & Retail, with 41x membership growth since the first chapter launch.
A rooted belief in #DoingNotTrying
The future we see
Our Vision
A diverse and equitable workforce where everyone can contribute and grow, and where organisations thrive.
Our active commitment
Our Mission
To attract, retain and advance all women in the retail and consumer goods industry, creating sustainable business value.
Our Values
By the Members, for the Members
Our Members and Partners are at the heart of everything we do. United in the journey towards a gender-equitable industry, we collaborate, grow, and succeed together.
Doing, not trying
As a movement of passionate and curious advocates, we experiment, challenge the status quo and commit to action. We measure progress, share learning, and make an impact.
Cultivating safe spaces
We invite dynamic exchanges of ideas, and welcome varied and opposing viewpoints. We create an open, supportive environment where all the voices of our community are respected and valued.
Why this matters, now more than ever
Our latest study found our collective efforts are moving the needle towards a more gender-balanced C-Suite, but the rate of progress is extremely slow and we know we can accelerate our efforts.
How we’re rising to the challenge
We believe what we do makes us who we are, and as a collective, we take action together to take greater strides towards more diverse talent pools.
