Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women to Launch Boldly into Male-Dominated Sectors
WORDS: Carla Murray, Partner and Head of Commercial at Slater Heelis Solicitors
Challenging the status quo in business
For many aspiring entrepreneurs, launching a business, especially in sectors like technology or life sciences can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. These industries have traditionally been male-dominated, and it’s easy to assume that success follows a particular mould. But that perception is changing, and rightly so.
More women are entering these spaces with fresh perspectives, innovation, and leadership; and it’s time we continue to support that momentum and ensure everyone, regardless of gender, feels confident stepping into business.
A personal mission to support founders
As a commercial lawyer with almost 20 years of experience and as someone who has balanced boardrooms with bedtime routines, I’m passionate about helping founders, especially women, feel empowered to take bold steps forward. You don’t need to fit a certain image or seek permission to lead. What matters is your vision and your readiness to act on it.
Starting your own business is no small feat, particularly in sectors where female leadership is still underrepresented. But if you have the vision, I believe you should have the tools, the support, and, more importantly, the confidence to bring it to life.
That’s where I come in.
Legal support that goes beyond the basics
As part of the Corporate/Commercial team at Slater Heelis, I work closely with business owners from the earliest stages of their business journeys; whether it’s forming the right legal structure, negotiating investment terms, protecting intellectual property, drafting NDAs, or setting bulletproof commercial contracts. When it comes to launching a product or service into the market, I understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and believe that clients deserve legal guidance that is strategic, commercial, and empathetic to their unique challenges.
Navigating unique challenges with confidence
While every entrepreneur faces challenges, women often encounter additional hurdles - from unconscious bias to balancing business ambitions with family commitments - meaning the reality can be tough. I’ve experienced moments myself where I was underestimated by preconceived ideas so I understand this notion firsthand.
These experiences have shaped my commitment to helping others walk into any room with confidence and clarity and to simply advocate for each other.
Progress over perfection
Too often, brilliant ideas are delayed because someone doesn’t feel ‘ready enough’, waiting for more experience, more capital, or more validation. But I’ve learnt that progress doesn’t always wait for perfection, but it requires action.
If you’ve got a bold idea - whether it’s a breakthrough tech product, a niche innovation or a lifelong ambition, you deserve the chance to bring it to life. The legal side? That’s where my team and I come in, as your trusted legal partner.
Your trusted Legal Partner
We are not just lawyers – we’re partners, sounding boards and champions for your success. From licensing frameworks and investor-ready contracts to website terms and data protection, we help clients make informed decisions from day one, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth.
The right support isn’t just about documents and deals; it’s about having someone in your corner who understands the journey. So, if you’re standing on the edge of an idea, wondering if now is the time, then this is your sign. Be bold. Ask questions. Get advice. Surround yourself with people who will back you to succeed.
About Carla
Carla Murray is a Partner and Head of Commercial at Slater Heelis Solicitors, specialising in Commercial Law, IT Law and Intellectual Property Rights. She joined the firm in 2024 and is based from their Sale office.
To contact Carla, 0161 672 1550 or email Carla.Murray@slaterheelis.co.uk
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