Riding high in a mostly male-dominated trade (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Riding high in a mostly male-dominated trade

9:20am Wednesday 30th May 2012 in Business By Hannah Postles, T&A Reporter

Woman In Business - Winner: Louise Jefferies

Motorcycle dealership boss Louise Jefferies looked visibly stunned to be declared winner of the Woman in Business award.

The mum-of-two was nominated for the honour by staff at Allan Jefferies in Baildon for her “amazing” achievements as a “female boss in a very male-dominated industry”.

The general manager, who has worked at the family business for more than ten years, received her award from Stephen Wright, president of Bradford Chamber.

After the presentation, an emotional Louise said: “I’m completely and utterly shocked. I’m absolutely thrilled, I can’t believe it. I feel really proud.

“It’s an honour to receive this award.”

Louise joined the family firm – which had its origins in a garage business started by her great-grandfather Joseph Jefferies in Saltaire in 1917 – as general manager in 2000.

The Jefferies name is synonymous with competitive motorcycling and bikes, and Louise is no exception. She is a motorcycle enthusiast and has held a motorcyle licence since the age of 17.

She added: “Because we’re a motorcyle dealership we’re very much a male-dominated business, but I would like to think I take it in my stride.

“I don’t think it is something that should put women off – if you work hard you will get there and do it.

“I work with a fantastic team and I was so thrilled to even be nominated.”

Louise and Allan Jefferies also won a highly commended award in the Employer of the Year category.

She earned plaudits from her staff such as: “I have been constantly surprised by Louise’s generosity and the constant support she offers to all of us who work for her in and out of work.”

* Highly commended: Valerie Jackson, boss at Stage 84, and Susan Sedgewick, managing partner at Watson Buckle chartered accountants.