From Corporate to CEO: Why More Women Are Taking the Leap
Mar 17, 2025
For many women, the corporate world provides structure, stability, and opportunity. But what happens when the dream of building something of your own becomes too big to ignore?
More and more, women are stepping away from the predictability of a corporate salary to embrace the entrepreneurial journey—one that offers flexibility, fulfillment, and financial freedom.
At Brand HQ, we’ve lived this transition first-hand.
Why We Left Corporate to Build Our Own Businesses
Co-Founders, Lizzy and Anna had spent over 20 years working in corporate across the UK, Australia, and the USA. With careers filled with incredible experiences, challenging projects, and inspiring mentors. But when motherhood entered the equation, the reality of rigid corporate structures and long hours sparked a desire for something to change.
Lizzy: “I loved my job, but I didn’t love that it took me away from my family. After having my three boys, I felt the pull to design a life that worked around them, not the other way around. It took time to be brave enough to make change, but when I did, I never looked back. I launched an e-commerce business in the baby sector and, despite the steep learning curve, I quickly replaced my corporate salary - while also gaining more time for my young family. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.’
Anna: “I followed a similar path, stepping out of corporate after feeling burnt out trying to juggle my career with my young family. This change led me to make some brave decisions, not return to my corporate job but use the skills I’d learned to launch a service based business. Despite being new to entrepreneurship, I quickly replaced my previous income and built a thriving business. It was liberating to take control of my career and lifestyle and have more time for my children.”
Along the way, we both realized how many women were trying to navigate the same transition - without a clear roadmap. That’s why we created Brand HQ: to provide access to the strategic, insight-led guidance women need to start and grow their businesses.
The Rise of Female Entrepreneurs
Women are starting businesses at record rates, with mums leading the charge. The motivation? The ability to earn an income while having the flexibility to care for children, aging parents, and their own wellbeing. Research shows that launching a business isn’t just about making money, it’s about reclaiming autonomy and designing a life on your terms.
Brand HQ is about making this transition easier. Many women hesitate because they don’t know where to start. That’s where Brand HQ steps in, helping women pressure-test their ideas, develop strategic brand foundations, and navigate the early stages of entrepreneurship with confidence.
More Than a Business - A Movement
Brand HQ isn’t just a platform; it’s a movement. A mission to help women launch, grow, and scale businesses that give them more time for what truly matters. Whether that’s their families, their passions, mental health or just a way to improve their overall wellbeing.
Brand HQ isn’t just about business; it’s about wellbeing, too.
Brand HQ is in the process of connecting with charity partners who are focused on mental fitness and wellbeing for all. Because success isn’t just about financial gains, it’s about building a life that supports your mental, emotional, and physical health.
Your Next Step: Let’s Build Your Business Together
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business but felt overwhelmed by where to begin, you’re not alone. The transition from corporate to entrepreneur isn’t easy, but with the right support, it’s more than possible.
At Brand HQ, we offer guidance, strategic insights, and a community of like-minded women ready to cheer you on. Whether you’re still in the idea phase or ready to scale, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Are you ready to design a business and a lif that works for you? We’d love to help.