MARTHA LANE FOX

What are your current leadership roles?

• Chairman and co-founder of Lucky Voice Private Karaoke
• Non-Executive Director of Marks and Spencer plc
• Non-Executive Director of Channel 4 Television
• Non-Executive Director of Mydeco.com
• Founder of the Charitable Foundation of Antigone
• Patron and Trustee of Reprieve
• Patron of Camfed

What has been your greatest achievement to date?

After the car accident in Morocco , learning to walk again.

Have there been barriers that you've had to overcome personally or professionally?

Professionally I've had amazing luck, there was the usual cynicism about the dot come bubble but apart from that I've been really lucky. However personally, very nearly dying, and not being able to walk, were incredibly difficult. It was a long journey to recovery.

What have been the major transitions on your leadership journey and what helped you through them? e.g. move to a new role, starting a family etc

It was a huge leapfrog for me going from working in someone else's business to starting up my own. At lastminute.com, we went from 2 to 2,000 staff, and in that environment you are continuously learning how to be a good leader.

Was there someone who helped you or inspired you to realise your potential as a leader? How did they help/inspire you?

My parents are amazing. They always encourage me. Having their support is so important. I have also been lucky to meet some amazing people during my career. Kip Meek, my boss at Spectrum, and other colleagues have helped me to believe in my own potential. Of course, Brent my business partner at lastminute.com, with whom I shared so much of the journey.

Is there one piece of advice that you would give an aspiring leader?

There are two things about brilliant leaders that I admire. First, their ability to be clear sighted for the future, keeping their eyes on the five year plan. Also, their attention to detail that can seem so impossible: knowing exactly what is happening on the shop floor as well as the boardroom.

What do you most enjoy about your leadership role(s)?

I am lucky because I am able to choose what I do and I am absolutely passionate about everything I do. I have such a diverse range of roles. I can go from a board meeting at M&S to presenting an award to a group of nurses for their outstanding work.

What do you think of Ignite?

Anything that is promoting women in leadership is really important, at whatever level. I really believe that.

Could your experience help others? Can you inspire others? Would you like to be inspired by new talent?

Read more women in leadership success stories here