International Women’s day - An interview with Catherine Wade

Catherine Wade - Head of Human Resources/Board Director/Leadership Coach

1. Can you tell me about what you do?

I’m a Head of Human Resources in Financial Services and Board Director. I’m also a trained Executive Coach.

2. What are your main responsibilities and achievements?

I have had many roles throughout my HR career, but have generally been responsible for the entire employee lifecycle, providing strategic and operational support to Leadership teams.  I initially started as a HR Manager doing the full operational remit, following several promotions progressed through to senior leadership roles. I’ve worked across Europe, New York and Hong Kong, mainly supporting the business through large scale reorganisations.

3. Did you always want to work for a Financial Services/ Technology (Fintech) Firm?

I made a conscious decision to go into Financial Services and was really quite focussed on where I wanted to be professionally. I felt that working in this industry would give me that scope. It’s given me lots of opportunity to meet some amazing people across the globe and to take on some really interesting projects.

4. Do you think there is a lack of women in senior HR positions?

I’ve worked with some really great senior women in HR and also met many others through my network. There is still a lot of scope for the progression of more BAME male and female role models within HR, so that young people will consider joining the profession and have a diverse range of role models to learn from. I think we all bring something different to the table and should represent our clients. It can be quite intimidating working in a firm and not seeing anyone that looks like you. We are missing a trick by excluding people that represent our communities.

5. What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in becoming successful in your field? How did you overcome them?

When my son was young, balancing my home and work life was a real challenge. I could see why many women in the industry, drop off at this point. I’ve also had to deal with a few very tough managers, both male and female.

For me, it was about being focussed and clear on what you want from your career and building relationships so you have allies both inside and outside the organisation. It’s also about being flexible at work and establishing a network of personal support, with other parents so your home and work life doesn’t suffer. It’s also really important to me, to have a life and relationships outside of work to help you keep work in perspective.

In Finance, keeping people you may disagree with onside has been key. Talking openly to them, so they learn to trust and respect your opinion. I also think the more you progress, you need to develop a thick skin and sense of humour and not take yourself too seriously. For me playing netball has also been a great way to unwind. 

6. Is there anyone (male or female) that inspires you in your career?

Yes, Sanjeev Sharma, COO, M&G, Julian Gell former HRD M&G, Monica Machon, Rajeev Mittal (former C Suite heads at AIG and PineBridge). They all helped me to grow whilst staying authentic. Watching them taught me to speak up, have integrity and don’t worry about being liked, just do a good job.  All were quite understated leaders, but well respected.

7. How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?

It’s crucial that as women we help each other. I regularly share my wisdom! I give advice to women and mentor young female graduates through various volunteering programmes and through my network. If speaking to me can help someone make a positive decision in their career or personal life, that’s fabulous. The more support we give each other the better.

8. On International Women’s Day what is the most important message you want to send out to young women starting their career today? 

You can achieve whatever you want, if you set your mind to it. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries, learn as much as you can and try and do the best you can. If you have a dream, go for it. Speak to those people that you admire and see if they will mentor you. Take all the opportunities you can, but make sure you have some fun along the way.