I’ve worked with a few good managers in the years, but also some terrible ones. As a consultant, you’re often needed at short notice because of a crisis (or sometimes an opportunity) and I’ve seen things I would never do to others, which has shaped how I behave today, together with the positives of course. Can you share any personal anecdotes about juggling career and family responsibilities that you found particularly challenging or rewarding? Not really, I try to make sure I’m always present for family milestones, where possible, and I have always been very committed to sports, I was a competitive weightlifter many years ago, now I’m a gymnast and it requires a daily commitment, so I find this keeps me grounded and gives me a way to switch off, but even less time for family and social. How would you describe your approach to leadership, and can you provide examples of innovative strategies you have implemented in your role? I’m very relaxed, I work on trust, and I like to stretch people. There have been a few occasions where someone on my team has stepped up and taken my role when I’ve left, and I’m very proud of that. I’ve never knowingly been mean to anybody during my career, and given the roles I’ve had and the transformational environments I’ve worked in, I’m proud to fly the flag of being an alternative way to get things done rather than shouting and punching at desks and throwing coffee (yes they are real examples). What are some trends or changes in the financial sector that you are particularly excited about or that you believe will shape the future of the industry? I’m excited for BI tools and automation to mean that finance functions can truly step away from the transactions and continue to add value around the business. It starts with adding the “why” behind the numbers and it evolves to being right there whenever any forward looking is needed. There’s a theory that attention should be given to managing the current, thinking of the future and considering the culture, and it is only when we move into automation and into realtime data that we can truly exploit these opportunities and protect against risk. Looking back on your career, what advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the financial sector? Have a thick skin, be tenacious, find good people and really listen and then listen even harder. Be a little self-critical as it will help you to grow. Lean on recruiters, as they will open opportunities that you didn’t think were possible. You won’t necessarily love every recruiter, but when you find someone who understands you, it’s so valuable. Take time out from work to commit to something else, to give life some purpose and balance. Make client service your main focus and never take even a permanent job for granted. These small tips can mitigate a loss of confidence, which can be a huge challenge to regain and set your career back significantly. How you treat others will be noticed, good or bad. Avoid ever saying that something is not in your job description. “Have a thick skin, be tenacious, find good people and really listen and then listen even harder. Be a little selfcritical as it will help you to grow.” Finance Monthly Global Awards 2024. UNITED KINGDOM 25
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