UK
In my school days I was good at Math, and at the time thought that logically meant that the career path for me was to go into accountancy. Little did I know at the time that very little of my job later in life would involve mathematics. As I continued studying the problem solving and analytical aspects of the profession are what kept my interest and where I find the most enjoyment in my job.
I am lucky to say that my early days in the industry were relatively challenge-free from a professional perspective. I started at Ernst and Young in New Zealand straight out of University where I got a great start in my career. The biggest challenge during this time was living through the Christchurch earthquakes while also completing my final year of my accounting qualifications. This experience I think solidified the resilience and adaptability that has served me well later in my career.
One of the biggest obstacles has been confronting persistent stereotypes about women in the workforce. Although there have been substantial strides toward equity, there remains a lingering perception that women are less analytical, more emotional, and better suited to roles associated with caregiving or support rather than leadership and strategy. These biases can manifest in subtle ways, such as being overlooked for certain opportunities or having one's opinions dismissed as overly emotive.
Navigating these challenges has required a steadfast commitment to proving my capabilities through consistent performance and professionalism. I've often relied on building credibility by demonstrating technical expertise and delivering results that exceed expectations.
Ultimately, overcoming these obstacles is about reshaping perceptions in the workplace and showcasing the value of diverse leadership styles. It involves persistence, a willingness to address bias head-on, and being committed to building inclusive spaces where talent and dedication are what truly matter.
One particular incident that stands out in my memory is being accused of being "hysterical" during a meeting with senior leadership. The meeting centred on addressing a critical issue, and a proposed solution was presented that I strongly disagreed with. When I voiced my concerns, the remark was made, suggesting that I was overreacting and behaving emotionally, an unfortunately stereotypical accusation often directed at women.
Earlier in my career, such a comment might have deeply affected me, likely discouraging me from holding my ground. However, by that point, I had gained enough experience and confidence to respond calmly yet assertively. I reiterated my perspective, presenting my reasoning with clarity and conviction. Fortunately, my boss at the time trusted my judgment and supported my stance, which ultimately validated my concerns and reinforced the importance of standing firm, even in challenging situations.
Striking a balance between professional obligations and personal priorities is something I haven't always managed perfectly. Earlier in my career, I often prioritised work deadlines or career advancements at the expense of personal responsibilities, which led to heightened stress levels and brought me dangerously close to burnout.
This experience taught me an invaluable lesson: neglecting personal well-being doesn't just harm personal relationships, it also undermines professional performance. Today, I make it a conscious effort to monitor my workload and maintain a healthier balance. After all, thriving in both personal and professional spheres requires resilience, mindfulness, and a commitment to self-care.
Building authority and earning respect as a leader have not presented challenges specific to my gender; rather, they have been shaped by my approach to management. While women remain underrepresented at the highest levels of leadership, other areas of business have become more inclusive, and I've found my teams receptive to female leadership without hesitation.
For me, establishing trust and respect within a team revolves around demonstrating integrity and empathy. My philosophy is simple: never ask your team to do something you wouldn't do yourself. I prioritise open communication, encouraging collaboration and creating a space where all questions are welcomed, no matter how basic they may seem.
Moreover, I strive to be an accessible sounding board for my colleagues and remain attuned to their needs and challenges. While technical expertise is undeniably crucial in any leadership role, it is the soft skills, compassion, active listening, and mutual respect that truly pave the way for lasting success.
Leadership is a continual learning process, and I embrace it as an evolving journey, ensuring my management style reflects both professionalism and humanity.
Finding mentors within the industry can be challenging, particularly as senior positions often remain male-dominated. However, I was fortunate to have two working parents who instilled a strong work ethic and a steadfast moral compass in me. My mother, who held senior leadership roles herself, served as an inspiring example, demonstrating that success in business is attainable regardless of gender.
Beyond familial influence, I actively seek guidance and knowledge through reading. Whether it's articles or books on leadership strategies, I'm always on the lookout for resources that help refine my approach and expand my perspective.
Throughout my career, I have observed a gradual shift in attitudes toward gender inclusion, particularly as I've advanced to more senior roles. When I first entered the workforce after University, half of the graduate intake was female, and with each step forward, the presence of women at various levels has increased. However, this progress tends to slow down at the highest tiers of leadership, often due to the competing demands that many women face in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
The Covid-19 pandemic brought about some positive changes, such as increased flexibility in working arrangements, which made it easier for women to remain in the workforce. Unfortunately, these advancements are beginning to reverse, with organisations showing a growing reluctance to maintain flexible work policies. This regression underscores the need for continued efforts to foster inclusivity and adaptability in the workplace.
When it comes to hiring and mentoring, I focus on building an inclusive and supportive vibe within the team. I make an effort to bring in people from all kinds of backgrounds, not just gender diversity, but also a mix of experiences and perspectives. This variety helps us come up with better ideas and solutions. Mentoring is really important to me too. I try to understand what each person is good at and where they might need some help, so I can give advice that's tailored to them and encourage them to go after opportunities that help them grow.
Overall, I aim to create a team where everyone feels valued, supported, and ready to thrive, no matter where they're starting from.
My advice? Don't let the stereotypes or challenges hold you back. Building a career in a male-dominated field might feel like swimming against the tide sometimes, but the trick is to focus on what you're good at and keep moving forward. Find people who support you, whether it's a mentor, a colleague, or even a friend and don't hesitate to ask for advice or share what you're aiming for. And when those little voices of doubt creep in, remind yourself that your hard work and drive are what got you where you are, not luck. Keep pushing ahead, be confident in your abilities, and remember you absolutely deserve to be in every room you walk into.
One of my greatest accomplishments in finance has been reaching a level in my career where I feel confident in my abilities and fully equipped to perform my role effectively. Early in my journey, I often struggled with impostor syndrome, questioning whether I truly deserved the opportunities I was given or attributing my promotions to mere luck. However, as I gained experience and deepened my knowledge, I came to recognise the significance of my hard work and determination in shaping my success.
This transformation has been incredibly empowering, allowing me to view my career with a sense of pride and assurance that my achievements are well-earned. For me, this sense of self-belief and ownership over my accomplishments is far more fulfilling than attaining a specific job title. It represents a profound personal and professional milestone, highlighting the resilience and dedication needed to thrive in a challenging and competitive field like finance.
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Lou Corbally has just under 20 years experience recruiting into Financial Services in London. Over nearly two decades, there have been incredible changes in the industry. One of the most significant shifts has been the growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion (D&I). To better understand these changes, she has been meeting and interviewing senior female leaders working in Financial Services as part of the series, Breaking Barriers: She Means Business.
