Employee Stories
Monica Malone
Empowering Voices
An interview with Monica Malone on International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month
In recognition of International Women’s Day (IWD) and Women’s History Month (WHM), we had the opportunity to hear from Monica Malone, Head of Banks & Broker Dealers (BBD) Americas and Head, Inbound, Europe, Americas Middle East & Africa. Throughout her career, Monica has worked across multiple functions, from Operations and Finance to Trading and Private Banking, gaining a wealth of knowledge that shaped her journey. She joined Standard Chartered, Americas in July 2024 to run the BBD and Fintech Americas coverage team.
As we celebrate IWD we recognize its importance not only as a global celebration of women’s achievements but also a call to action for gender equality. WHM also provides an essential space to reflect on the remarkable contribution of women throughout history, reminding us there is still much work to do. In this interview, Monica shares insights into her career path, the significance of IWD and WHM, the importance of having women in leadership roles and much more.
What attracted you to join Standard Chartered Bank?
Standard Chartered Bank has a unique footprint with a fantastic growth opportunity in the US. The commitment to grow Financial Institutions (FI) and the US was a meaningful part of my decision to join the bank. I met dynamic people in management during my interview process and have since been so impressed by many colleagues across the platform. I’m glad to have joined the team and look forward to a successful 2025 and beyond.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is, For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. What does this theme mean to you?
As a working mom of three young girls, I take empowerment, advocacy, and women’s rights seriously. We all have different trials and challenges, and our situations (or at least mine did) evolve with age, experience, and confidence. I also understand that the reality and environment in which I live and work is privileged compared to so many. With that in mind, I strive to be empathetic and honest in all situations. I am always happy to share my own stories and experiences in case I can help anyone learn through my own lessons lived. International Women’s Day is a great reminder of how far we’ve come, but how much road is left. It’s an opportunity to reflect and share our journeys – the challenges and the celebrations.
In what ways can we foster an environment where women feel empowered to take on leadership roles?
Fostering calculated risk taking and promoting smart and talented women who may not have 100% of the skills on paper but are ready to roll up their sleeves and learn is a great way bring talented women up the leadership chain. We’ve all seen the statistics around why men and women apply differently to jobs. I am excited to be part of this office, where we’ll have women in the CEO, COO, Global Head FI, Global Head of Fund Finance seats, among others. Their success should give younger talent the view that there is space for senior women to lead at Standard Chartered. Advocates, male and female, who are willing to take a risk on talent that they believe in can move the needle tremendously on someone’s career. Advocacy not only helps bring one to the table/opportunity, but helps foster the confidence and style necessary to succeed.
What is the best career advice you would give to a woman at a junior level who aspires to take on a leadership role?
Take calculated risks; the Lean In mantra. I was reading the book by Sheryl Sandberg 10+ years ago with an infant at home and a job offer in hand that represented a major change. My younger sister was over for a pasta dinner as I weighed the pros, cons, and risks. She asked what a new father would do in the same scenario… I’m not sure if it was Sheryl’s words or my sister’s, but I took the job and it was 100% the right decision.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
I’ve gotten a lot of good and bad advice over the years. I’ll share a few things that have stuck, even if they don’t seem groundbreaking.
When I was very young, a senior MD that I respected told me to think about what needs an urgent response vs. what needs a thoughtful response. Sometimes, things that don’t need an immediate reply are better given a bit later with full information set and proper context. Adding my own two cents to that: picking up the phone can be so much more impactful than an email, where appropriate.
For new parents: A senior sales desk head told me as I embarked on leading a team: Invest in good childcare because it’s an investment in your child, your self-care and your career. Only when a young parent feels comfortable and confident that their baby is well cared for can they focus on a career. I’m a firm believer in the importance of time at home with family, but this advice did help me make decisions on how to advance my career with little ones at home.
From my Dad for when you’re having a tough day: It’s not always fun and interesting. Sometimes work is hard and frustrating. That’s why they pay us.
Who is a woman that has inspired you and how has her influence shaped your journey or perspective?
There is a former General Counsel that I worked with at another foreign bank in the US. She was the top attorney, but also a true advisor to both the most senior management and to women, young talent, among others, across various levels at the bank. She was a driving force in shaping a culture. She was a young divorced mom of two who was honest about her struggles to manage motherhood, career, personal life. She was very involved in the DEI networks and gave transparent positive and constructive feedback to those of us looking for perspective. She sat on several charitable boards and I’m happy to watch her career evolve to General Counsel of GSIBs.
International Women’s Day is a great reminder of how far we’ve come, but how much road is left. It’s an opportunity to reflect and share our journeys – the challenges and the celebrations.
Monica MaloneHead of Banks & Broker Dealers (BBD)