International Women’s day - An interview with Monika Poznar

Monika Poznar - Head of HR - Habib AG Zurich Bank

1. Can you tell me about what you do?

I work as a Head of HR at Habib Bank AG Zurich, UK and I am a member of the Executive Committee and Senior Leadership Team and a Chair of the HR Committee.

2.What are your main responsibilities and achievements at Habib Bank AG Zurich 

Since joining the Bank in early 2018, I have managed to build and stabilise a strong HR team, streamlined and improved processes, reviewed policies, improved employee benefit offering and engagement practices.  In my role, I am responsible for HR Strategy, driving business performance, employee relations, training & development, remuneration, resourcing and talent management, implementation of policy and procedures and employee engagement.   

3.Did you always want to work for a Technology/Fintech/FS Firm?

I have actually started my career within the hospitality industry and moved to Banking when an opportunity came about, which was definitely a change I enjoyed a lot and I appreciate the current FS world which keeps you challenged all the time but also offers a lot of job satisfaction at the same time.

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

I think there is quite a lot of successful senior HR women, but I don't see enough senior women in other functions yet. As much as it is slowly changing, there is still a long way to go. I am quite proud to be one of two women in the Executive and Senior Leadership teams which demonstrates our Bank's direction to promote and include more women in senior positions. 

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

I think the most common barrier I have faced in the past, was to be taken seriously enough amongst other male colleagues when decisions were made in a male dominated environment. I am glad that times have changed and women are now included and treated equally. 

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

I have taken inspiration from my previous HR Director who was actually the only senior female voice in the Boardroom amongst all the males, but always managed to make her voice heard and never gave up and successfully led and developed quite a big HR team. I admired her resilience which is what I have learnt from her.

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

It is very important to support other women and empower them so they can grow and realise their full potential. I think it also means removing any possible barriers, creating opportunities for other women to participate in important meetings, providing them with the right exposure and also leading by example and coaching them along the way of their development.

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

Never give up, always believe in yourself and work hard as it will pay off one day. Accept any challenges thrown at you, as this is when your learning and development comes from.