When and why did Credit Suisse start to support WiFA?
Credit Suisse began its sponsorship of WiFA in 2018. Over the past two years, WiFA’s programs and events have become increasingly relevant to our employees and we find that the variety of speakers and topics offered appeal to a broad audience.
What is your current role, and your participation within the diversity and inclusion initiatives?
As Head of Diversity & Inclusion for Asia Pacific at Credit Suisse, I drive the global D&I strategy of the bank in the region, consult on business-led D&I initiatives to ensure strategic alignment and impact, and provide guidance and governance of the various internal employee networks and resource groups in the region. In this capacity, I am involved in most, if not all, D&I initiatives within Credit Suisse.
I have been in this role since early 2018, while also double hatting with recruitment responsibilities until the start of 2020. I was Chair of the Hong Kong Women’s Network for two years as well as a founding Committee Member for both this Network and the Hong Kong LGBT Open Network which won LGBT+ Network of the Year at the Community Business LGBT+ Inclusion Awards 2019.
Can you share one of your Firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Programs that resonates WiFA mission? Challenges and Accomplishment?
The initiative that I believe resonates the most with WiFA’s mission is the Advocates Program that our Hong Kong Women’s Network is currently running. By providing Advocates with practical guidance on how to identify, sponsor and advocate for female colleagues, we can ensure that women within the organization are recognized as future potential leaders and supported in their career aspirations.
This program benefits women by enabling them to achieve their full professional potential, while our Advocates benefit by having the opportunity to support the development and progression of talented female colleagues within the bank. Ultimately, Credit Suisse benefits as everyone involved is striving to be the best they can be. Although we launched this initiative just last year, the engagement across the organization has been very encouraging.
Tell us one thing that is important for #CreatingTheWorkforceOfTheFuture
Putting people first is central to creating the workforce of the future. This involves helping employees to find purpose and meaning in their work as well as to gain a sense of belonging within their organization. Employees who feel valued are also often the most effective in their roles, and this leads to the best performing organizations.
What advice would you give to women who want to lead?
If you want to lead, step up and speak out. Leading need not mean helming an entire company, as leadership opportunities can be everywhere – whether it is stepping in to lead a team, driving a philanthropy event or spearheading an initiative within your company’s women’s network. No opportunity is too small when honing your leadership skills. My advice: go for it!