From commissioning Strictly Come Dancing to leading London's Southbank Centre, Elaine Bedell has spent her career making culture accessible to everyone. Here's what she had to say about the successes, challenges, and inspirations she encountered on her journey.

What is your biggest success to date as a female leader? Conversely, what has been the greatest challenge?

I was really proud to become the first woman CEO of the Southbank Centre – an 11-acre site on the South Bank of the River Thames, that welcomes millions of people a year through our doors with an inspiring multi-art form programme. However, during COVID, it broke my heart to see the place close its doors – it was a challenging time for all of us in the cultural sector. Nothing beats the live experience. It really is the DNA of this place, and seeing it empty during Covid was something I’d never want to live through again. It makes me appreciate just how special the Southbank Centre is. Everyone I meet has a ‘Southbank Centre’ story – a first date, a favourite gig, time spent with friends and family. It’s a privilege to lead this place, and it’s something I cherish every day.”

How, if at all, has your career path been shaped by gender and what advice would you give young women starting out in broadcasting and the arts today?

I knew I wanted to be a BBC producer, and I knew I wanted to be a mum. Those things are not easily combined - and definitely not without a lot of help. For me, most of that help has come from other women: my mum, my sister, my best friends, home helps, assistants, supportive colleagues and managers. Try and find your female gang! And when you've found it - give back as much as you take!

The theme of International Women’s Day 2026 is ‘Give to Gain,’ emphasising the power of reciprocity and support. How does this theme resonate for you?

I've been incredibly well supported by women throughout my career. Some of my earliest mentors and supporters at the BBC were the first pioneering women in the history of the BBC to become producers and managers - it was so male-dominated, most women were there to take notes in meetings and make the tea. These women were clever, unconventional, determined - but also kind, warm and generous. My advice would always be kind and always be generous.

This International Women’s Day, Wolf & Badger activations are focused on the phrase ‘Every icon has an icon,’ prompted by the women who inspire us. Tell us about the women who inspired you throughout your career and how.

As the first woman CEO of the Southbank Centre, I’m continuously inspired by the great women who have shaped this iconic venue. Delia Derbyshire – an unsung hero of electronic music who established the iconic BBC Radiophonic workshop and who featured in the opening performance at the Queen Elizabeth Hall; Shirley Bassey, who holds the title of having the longest-running residency at the Royal Festival Hall. Meeting Michelle Obama backstage at the Royal Festival Hall. Meeting Michelle Obama backstage at the Royal Festival Hall was one of the joys of my job here. She was incredibly gracious and generous and her inspirational talk on stage emphasised the importance of education.

Over 80% of the independent brands on Wolf & Badger are female-founded. In a dream world, which pieces from their collections would you most like to add to your basket?

The Betsy and Floss Milan Tote bag in orange...I love a Tote - especially one with a seemingly bottomless pit, where you can discover long lost items, like a favourite hairbrush or a mascara. It reminds me of Mary Poppins' bag - so large and capable that you could reach down and draw out a standard lamp and a potted plant, if needed.

And the Tyra Gown in Pewter - because who doesn't want to sparkle in a gold dress?

Elaine Bedell has been CEO of Southbank Centre since 2017 - this year the arts centre celebrates its 75th anniversary year with a vibrant, inclusive programme that looks to the future. Prior to Southbank Centre, Elaine previously held senior roles at both the BBC and ITV, where she commissioned and produced some of the UK’s most popular and original factual and entertainment formats. She became a BBC producer at the age of 23, and set up her own production company, Watchmaker, which she later sold to the Chrysalis Group. Elaine has won a BAFTA and a British Comedy Award. She was Executive Chair of the Edinburgh International TV Festival, was a Trustee of the V&A Museum and is currently a Trustee of The Yard Theatre in East London. Her debut novel, About That Night, was published by Harper Collins in 2019.