IWD 2026: Founders in Focus – Sarah Fletcher, Grass & Co

Do you work differently depending on your environment?

Yes, definitely. At home I’m much more creative — it’s where I’ll shoot content, develop brand ideas, and think more intuitively. There’s a freedom and flexibility there that allows me to experiment without interruption. In our private office in London, I’m more energetic and collaborative. That’s where momentum builds — team conversations, problem-solving, quick and agile decisions. The pace is different.

How does the design of your workspace affect how you think, lead and feel?

Design has a huge psychological impact on how I show up as a leader. Natural light, calm tones and thoughtfully designed areas for collaboration versus deep work all influence how grounded, focussed and creative I feel throughout the day. We’re based in the beautiful office spaces at LABS 90 High Holborn, and that environment genuinely elevates how we work. From the architecture to the atmosphere, it creates a sense of clarity and calm that aligns closely with what we stand for as a brand.

What does a truly supportive work environment look like to you?

A supportive environment is one where ambition and wellbeing coexist, feedback is direct but kind, and flexibility isn’t career-limiting. People feel seen as whole humans. It’s a place where someone can say, “I’m struggling,” without fearing it will cost them credibility.

 What outdated advice about women and work should we leave behind?

The idea that women need to be less emotional to be effective leaders. Emotional intelligence is an asset, not a liability. Empathy, intuition and relational awareness are competitive advantages in modern leadership. And the notion that you must choose between ambition and family — that framing is outdated and unhelpful.

Lastly, what does International Women’s Day mean to you at this stage of your journey?

At this stage, it feels less symbolic and more reflective. It’s a reminder to ask: are we actually building structures that support women in business long-term, or are we just celebrating surface-level progress? For me, it’s about accountability — not just celebration.

Sarah’s words are a reminder that the environments we choose — physical and cultural — shape far more than just our productivity. They shape how we show up. Our serviced offices in Holborn and Camden are designed with exactly that in mind, and it’s a perspective we live by.

International Women’s Day 2026 series

IWD 2026: Founders in Focus
Emma Serlin, London Speech Workshop