Coaching the next generation of female leaders: Katie’s story

Igniting potential

Before long, we were all set. The initiative became known as IGNITE. With 10 coaches upskilled and ready to go, we were ready for our first cohort of 10 women. We started with an opening ceremony where everybody could get to know each other before they commenced their learning journey.

I kept in contact with each woman involved, to ensure that the sessions were achieving what we had planned. The women were extremely ambitious and enjoyed the community aspect of the sessions. Though it was a huge challenge, the encouraging feedback I got made it all worth it.

Three of the women got a promotion after the programme, and another discovered a new role within the company. All of the women involved became more confident in their roles, voicing their ideas and putting themselves forward for other opportunities. I was delighted by these women’s success, and the part I had played in helping them grow.

Loving life in my new role

I’m grateful that I’ve been able to create a role that suits my work-life balance. Thanks to the Bank’s continued support of me and the programme, we’re expanding it and now have 25 coaches across seven countries. We're launching a new four-month programme this year to include more women wanting to transform their careers.

Taking the decision to change my career at the ‘midway’ point was not easy. But if I take a step back, I see the enormity of what I have accomplished – I’ve forged my own path, moulding my career around my life, while helping pave the way for women to get into leadership roles. Together, we can help each other achieve anything we set our minds to.