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Employee Stories

Crystal and Lopa

Meet Standard Chartered US 2024 Working Parents of the Year

Two colleagues outside

Standard Chartered US was recently recognised as a 2024 Seramount 100 Best Company, which acknowledges our ongoing commitment to providing inclusive benefits for employees through forward-thinking workplace programmes.

As part of the recognition, we had the privilege of choosing two employees to represent us and receive Working Parents of the Year awards from Seramount. This year’s honorees are Crystal Joyce, and Lopa Trivedi, members of the Bank’s Caregivers And Parents Engagement (CAPE) Employee Resource Group (ERG). who were recognised for making significant contributions to the Bank and community while managing the many challenges facing working parents today.

We take a closer look at how they’ve navigated their careers as working parents and how the Bank and its networks have benefitted employees with caring responsibilities.

Can you share a little about your personal and professional background?

Crystal: I’ve spent nearly 20 years in Financial Crime Compliance, with almost a decade at Standard Chartered. My husband and I are raising two wonderful children in New Jersey, where have a thriving homestead with nearly 30 chickens, two goats, and a bounty of homegrown vegetables and fruits. We are a dedicated soccer family and travel from town to town on weekends for our kids’ games and tournaments. I’m passionate about my career and always working towards developing, learning, and inspiring my team and peers.

Lopa: I’ve been with the Bank for 25 years, during which I’ve had the opportunity to work in Retail Banking, Human Resources, Financial Markets, and Global Banking. Each of these roles and experiences has shaped my journey, giving me a unique perspective on the work we do. Five years ago, I relocated from Dubai to the US, where I spent significant part of my life. I’m a mother to a son, love listening to music and volunteer virtually at a hospice care facility.

What does this award mean to you?

Crystal:  This award is truly special to me. Balancing a career and family is a constant act of dedication, often without formal recognition. For working parents, it is a constant juggling act between a commitment to your career and what needs to be done for your family. This award changes that for me. It enables my family and colleagues to take time to appreciate the work it takes to get the job done at home and in my career.

Lopa: Winning this award is deeply meaningful. This is not just a personal achievement; it’s a testament to the support and encouragement I received from colleagues and family. This recognition reflects the collective commitment that has carried me through each step of my journey.

In your own words, what would you say is the most difficult thing about being a working parent?

Crystal: Striking the balance between your career aspirations and how that will impact your family.

Lopa: Feeling guilty when not able to be present for all the school events.

How have you navigated the balance between parenting and a career, and what insights can you share for those starting this journey?

Crystal: Balancing parenting and career success has been challenging but rewarding. I’ve learned to leave work behind and be present with my family, sharing our experiences together. It is important for my children to see me as a dedicated mother with personal ambitions. When I became a parent 13 years ago, my career was taking off, which created anxiety about how I would manage both personal and professional responsibilities. I’m thankful to my husband for sacrificing his career to support our family. With a growing support network and the introduction of hybrid work, I’ve found a better balance. I appreciate the Bank for offering flexible work arrangements, which are crucial for the well-being of working parents.

Lopa: Don’t hesitate to ask for help both professionally and personally. This is essential for achieving work-life balance because it allows individuals to manage their time and energy more effectively, reducing stress and preventing burnout. By seeking support when needed, you not only gain perspectives but also create a support system where responsibilities can be shared, making space for personal commitments and self-care.