Kaizen Sponsors Women In Finance Event Hosted By FINSIA

Kaizen Recruitment was the proud sponsor of last week’s Women in Finance panel discussion hosted by FINSIA. The panel included Ariane Barker, Siobhan Hennessy, Jane Hume and Jenny Taing, and the discussion kicked off with each panelist providing an overview of their individual professional journey into the world of finance. Key discussion points revolved around gender, cultural and thought diversity as well as the broader challenges faced by women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In addressing the later point, the panel spoke passionately with regard to the importance, in particular for women, to build self-belief, gain respect and credibility, growing the confidence to speak up, understanding your individual value proposition, being authentic, shifting your mindset to create a level playing field and expressing one’s own individuality.

Whilst the panel felt that gender diversity is an important factor in creating a balanced organisational culture, it was agreed that other factors such as inclusivity, thought diversity, good governance and accountability were equally important in creating a culture that rewards and recognises attitude, effort and merit irrespective of title or gender. Another interesting point of view was the idea of practising self-awareness. It was recommended for all attendees that in better understanding self, networking, sponsorship and mentorship are all ways that can assist with self-development.

In rounding out the evening, a question from the floor challenged the panel to provide one piece of advice for women who are leading out in their professional life.

• Jenny advised that women should back themselves in what they do, to not sweat the small stuff and always have an eagerness to learn.
• Ariane said that as a starting point, you find out what you’re good at and what you love to do, which is normally followed by making compromises, sacrifices and hard work. As well as believing in yourself, you also need to develop strong self-awareness which can be supported by having the right people around you.
• Jane said that it was important to recognise the nobility in your chosen profession.
• Siobhan advised that it is important to do something that ‘scars’ you a little bit everyday; find your passion, be authentic and seek out a mentor that can help you identify things, otherwise, that you may not see in yourself.

The Kaizen team wish to thank FINSIA for hosting the event and all attendees, recognise the great work done by the charity partner, ‘Fitted for Work’ and, in particular, thank the panelists for their time and in sharing their experience with us all.

Regards,

Chris Goulas, Principal Consultant

Kaizen Recruitment specialises financial services recruitment across funds management, wealth management, superannuation, investment consulting and insurance. We are based in Melbourne and Sydney. For assistance or further information please telephone our office at +61 3 9095 7157 or submit an online form.

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