Karen Doran is a councillor for the City Centre ward. She was elected in 2012.
What are you doing to celebrate International Women’s Day?
I usually spend Saturday mornings walking around the City Centre ward, which I hope to do on the 8th followed by attending “Womankind” a women’s event at St. Columbas.
What is your job?
I am an office manager to an MP and also the Labour City Centre Councillor.
Would you give us a quick version of your career path?
Office Junior, Typist, Receptionist, Secretary, PA, Office Manager, Councillor
If you had been given career advice on leaving school (knowing what you know now!) what would it have been?
Work hard, don’t listen to the advice given by teachers who are negative, find something you love doing and work hard, learn as much as you can, be your own person, and support your colleagues. Don’t give up your dream.
Do you use any formal networking organisations? If you do which ones do you find useful?
No
Do you think there are enough women in important positions in private and public organisations in Edinburgh?
No
Who is your inspirational female figure and why?
I could name a few, Emily Pankhurst etc, but I will be personal in my response. I admired my mother who worked all her life for her family. I also admired my sister, Annette Lamont, a single parent, local Councillor, and a human shield in Iraq. Annette always fought hard for equality and the things she believed in.
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