In conversation with... Theodora Leonidou

What do you see as the biggest challenges in building a truly diverse workforce in credit and financial services?  

Institutions would need to look at this challenge in a holistic way. For example, if an institution focuses on the recruitment process by putting actions in place to ensure there is a diverse set of applicants and maybe even taking the next steps in ensuring that their interview panels are diverse, that’s a good first step. However, to make a real difference we need to look at the wider picture of how colleagues are supported and empowered to develop in the organisation regardless of their gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or age. That can often be the hardest part as it requires having honest conversations to identify the challenges as well as focus and investment to put the solutions in place.  

Why do these challenges persist, and what role should all leaders play in dismantling them?  

Challenges persist for a variety of different reasons, for example, in some organisations it could be something more structural whilst in others it can just be a case of having the right ‘tone from the top’ on the importance of diversity accompanied with tangible actions and commitments. It is also imperative that these actions and commitments are aligned with the organisation’s strategy, culture and values to ensure that they can be seamlessly embedded across the organisation. I believe leaders play a key role in breaking down these barriers as they need to be the example that others can follow. Many times ‘little’ and simple actions can go a long way – for example creating opportunities for networking and socialising inside regular working hours to ensure everyone can attend. It is also very important to ensure that all team members get equal opportunities to projects and work that enable them to grow and learn new skills.  

One of this year’s themes is the ‘business case for inclusion’, can you share examples where diversity has driven commercial or operational success?  

As a leader I believe that the diversity of thinking within my team always gets us to the best solutions that ultimately lead to better deliverables and operational success. We are often faced with many complex problems that can be solved in a variety of different ways and I strongly believe that the more diverse team you have the more likely you will end up with the best solution. 

What role do you see male leaders playing in accelerating progress on inclusion, and how does attending this event help them do that?  

Male leaders play a very important role in accelerating progress. In the past, I have seen many examples where there are more women than men leading conversations on gender allyship. In the credit industry, male leaders are a majority which makes it ever more important that they are allies by encouraging awareness on gender equity, challenging gender stereotypes as well as bringing the male perspective in certain conversations where they may have been historically absent. In order to truly achieve equity we also need to increase awareness about issues that may impact male colleagues differently such as mental health. The more we can see this as a ‘we’ problem the faster we can ensure that all colleagues work in an inclusive and diverse work environment. 

Any advice for the next generation looking to develop their careers?  

Be open to opportunities that may not be exactly what you set off looking for but could actually be the ones that take you out of your comfort zone and help you develop into a well-versed professional. 

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?  

A previous boss once reminded me that I have so many years ahead of me until retirement that I can wake up tomorrow, decide that I want to completely change my career direction, and would still have so many years ahead of me to become successful in my new career path. 

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Women & Diversity in Credit Conference, and what outcome would you most like to see for attendees post-event?  

Looking forward to meet fellow peers that are excited about Women & Diversity in credit and get some inspiration on how we can all do better to foster allyship and inclusion in our respective organisations.