Trailblazer: Raj Chand

As part of our Trailblazers: Women Transforming the Public Sector and Beyond series, we continue to highlight women whose leadership is helping shape better services and stronger communities.

The next feature in the series is Raj Chand, Consultant (Customer Services, Transformation, Leadership) at the London Borough of Lambeth. Raj reflects on her leadership journey, the importance of backing yourself even when self-doubt appears, and the role diverse perspectives play in strengthening public services. She also shares what motivates her work in public service and the leaders who have influenced her approach to leadership.

What’s your proudest career achievement so far?
One of my proudest career achievements has been progressing into leadership roles where I’ve been able to positively influence how services support people in our communities. Helping organisations navigate complex challenges and bringing people together around a shared purpose and empowering teams to deliver meaningful change for residents has been incredibly rewarding for me. Public services have a direct and lasting impact on people’s lives, and contributing to decisions that improve those services is something I’m truly proud of.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to women aspiring to leadership positions?
It would be, don’t wait until you feel completely ready before stepping forward. Many women underestimate the experience and perspective they already bring. Back yourself, even when self‑doubt creeps in. Many of the opportunities that helped me grow came from saying “yes” before I felt fully ready. Don’t be afraid to own your strengths. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about being willing to learn, listen, and trust that your voice matters. For me, leadership is less about the role and more about the people. Some of the most satisfying moments in my career have been supporting colleagues to grow in confidence, step into new opportunities, and realise their potential.

How do you think having more women in senior leadership benefits public services and the communities they serve?
Having more women in senior leadership is incredibly important for public services because leadership should reflect the communities we serve. When different perspectives are represented at the decision-making table, we have richer conversations, better solutions, and ultimately deliver services that work for more people. I think it also brings greater diversity of thought, emotional intelligence, and collaborative problem‑solving. Women leaders often take a more holistic, community‑centred approach, and this leads to better designed services, stronger engagement, and more inclusive outcomes.

What motivates you most about working in public service?
I’m motivated by knowing that the work we do genuinely matters. Often the decisions we make or the services we deliver impact people during some of the most important or challenging moments in their lives. Being able to contribute, even in a small way, to improving those experiences is incredibly meaningful for me, it’s that sense of purpose that keeps me energised.

Who’s a woman that’s inspired you in your career – and why?
I’ve been lucky to work (and currently work) alongside a number of remarkable women, one that stands out in particular was Ann Sutcliffe who was a previous Corporate Director I worked for. She led with such authenticity and calm under pressure, never compromising her integrity, even when the challenges were intense. What stayed with me was how she combined strength with empathy, and how naturally she brought people with her. Her example not only shaped how I lead but also demonstrated how you can be both compassionate and courageous at the same time as being a leader. Being inspired by women who lead with integrity, compassion, and resilience particularly those who lift others up along the way is what I respect the most.
 

As someone once said – “The Success of every woman should be the inspiration to another… be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble”