Philippa Tuttiett
Former Welsh Rugby International, Sports Broadcaster, Public Speaker.
Philippa is the face of Welsh Women’s rugby and since her playing retirement, she has become a fan favourite in the commentary box and one of the most respected female pundits in the world.
Before retiring from international rugby in 2018, the winger represented Wales in Seven Six Nations championships and at the 2014 Rugby World Cup in France. She was also captain of the Cardiff Blues.
Her long career led to her becoming one of the highest capped Welsh international Sevens players, representing her country on the World Sevens Series and then achieving her dream of captaining Wales at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Heart-break for Philippa struck, however, when she was injured at the start of the tournament, and this ultimately forced her retirement from international rugby. Philippa also battled against the odds, overcoming a career threatening heart murmur which she still has to closely monitor today.
On hanging up her rugby boots, Philippa’s passion and expertise for rugby continues now as a media professional. She was one of the first former female players to commentate on men’s international rugby, and is now a regular working for the BBC, Premier Sports, Sky Sports, ITV and the BBC on Rugby World Cups, the Six Nations, Premiership Rugby and the United Rugby Championship.
Off the field there is no glass ceiling, with Philippa setting up the UK’s first building company to offer an all-female work force. Female Building and Interiors was launched in 2007 and continues to be very successful. She also became the first female builder to be featured on TV as master builder of the Renovation Game on Channel 4, and she has hosted a series of DIY tips with UKTV.
Away from the rugby pitch, Philippa is an excellent speaker. Whether it’s talking about leadership as captain or overcoming adversity, she has an intriguing story you will want to hear.
Career Highlights
Inspirational Speaker
Philippa’s speaking topics include: leadership, understanding pressure, pitch to boardroom, transferring skills, working in a male environment and challenging perceptions.
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"We invited Philippa to speak as part of our International Women’s Day celebrations. Philippa shared her unique story with Safran sites all over the UK; the unanimously positive feedback repeatedly mentioned how inspirational Philippa was. Her honest yet uplifting responses to the questions asked about bias and challenges she may have experienced during her journey perfectly complimented the International Women’s Day theme of embracing gender equity. Thank you Philippa!"
Safran Seats GB
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“We at Welsh Water had the pleasure of listening to a talk by Philippa Tuttiett. Her talk on breaking the glass ceiling, staying motivated in challenging times and staying true to your goals was both inspiring and uplifting. Phillipa’s engaging presentation style and ability to connect with colleagues made the talk both informative and enjoyable. We would like to thank Phillipa for taking the time to talk with us, and to share her valuable insight which has left a lasting impression on the team."
Annette Mason, Head of Talent and Inclusivity
Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water
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“I was keen to for Phillipa to speak at the DVLA for International Women’s Day 2020 and she did not disappoint. Phillipa grabbed the attention of the audience from the off, giving a compelling insight into her life journey from a sports-loving youngster and creator of the UK’s first all-female building company, to discovering a heart related issue which prevented her from playing sports, right through to her inspirational fightback to the dizzying heights of captaining an international women’s rugby team. She also created a buzz in the auditorium before and after the event as she interacted with members of the audience and as a whole she was pleasure to work with."
DVLA
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"Philippa was excellent, feedback was great. Her stories of construction and rugby really lifted the room and all eyes were on her which is always a good sign.”
Susan Selkirk at CECA
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