Willbond director wins Woman of Substance award

Lisa Jepson, director at Nottingham independent plumbers merchant Willbond has been recognised as a ‘Woman of Substance’ to mark the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

Jepson, who is director of Willbond’s bathroom centres, received her award at a special ceremony at Nottingham Council House.

Earlier in the year, Nottingham launched a search to find 100 inspiring women who have overcome professional or personal barriers, worked selflessly to improve their community or made a lasting impact on Nottingham in some other way.

Over 150 nominations were received and a judging panel shortlisted this to the final 100.

Jepson was nominated by Willbond md Tony Hogg, in recognition of her successful career path. She joined Willbond in 1985 as a receptionist before moving into bathroom. When she returned to work after maternity leave she was promoted to showroom manager where she led a makeover of the business, including a new corporate identity.

Jepson was appointed to the board in 2008 and is now responsible for 25 staff and a £4m turnover.

She said: “It was amazing to be nominated and I felt very humble to meet the other women at the celebratory event and hear their inspirational stories and backgrounds.”