Simone joined the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team Women’s Network to share lessons from her remarkable career in sport and business.

As a supplier to the team, Commercial were invited to take part in the event. Simone spoke about her passion for helping women break down barriers and pursue careers in technology.

Drawing on her experience as a Commonwealth Games gold medallist swimmer and business leader, she shared the mindset, resilience and determination that helped her grow Commercial from a one-room start-up into a £100 million business.

Before addressing the Women’s Network, Simone was given an exclusive tour of the team’s state-of-the-art factory in Brackley.

 

Preparations were well underway for the Italian Grand Prix, giving Simone a first-hand look at the people, processes and precision behind one of Formula One’s most successful teams.

 

During the visit, she met Head of Composite Manufacturing Sophie Castle and Senior Regulations Analyst Lucy Walker. They shared valuable insight into the expertise required to keep the team performing at the highest level.

 

“I met some incredibly talented women and was so impressed by everything Sophie and Lucy had to say,” said Simone.

 

“Walking around the factory with them was fascinating. It’s remarkable to see so many specialist teams working independently while working towards the same goal.

 

“People have to make incredibly fast decisions and the impact can be huge, with millions watching around the world.

 

“Despite that pressure, the whole environment felt calm, focused and completely aligned. My mind was blown. Big up for the ladies here. They really know their stuff.”

 

The event highlighted the relationship between Commercial and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1, which began earlier this year.

 

During the hour-long session, Simone reflected on her international swimming career and explained how the lessons she learned in the pool continue to shape her leadership style today.

 

“Sport teaches you resilience, discipline and mental strength,” she said.

 

“You don’t always get the outcome you want, but you learn to get back up, learn from it and keep moving forward. Those lessons have helped me throughout my career.

 

“When times are difficult, keep things simple, focus on what you can control and be brave enough to take action.”

When asked what advice she would give women considering careers in technology, engineering and leadership, Simone encouraged attendees to think boldly about their future.

 

“Think about your future self and what you want to become,” she said.

 

“Stay curious, seek out mentors and build clear personal ambitions.

 

“Keep learning, keep asking questions and don’t limit yourself. Raise your hand for opportunities and be brave enough to go after them.

 

“Most importantly, people perform at their best when they feel valued and supported. If you can help others achieve their potential, amazing things happen.”