Bank of New York Mellon : Being HERoes for Each Other

Written by: Jean Wynn | Head of Corporate Banking & Public Finance, Global Client Management, Co-founder of BNY Mellon's Women's Initiatives Network (WIN) and the Women's Wall Street Alliance

I find it energizing and rewarding to see support for women on their career journeys within our company and the financial services industry. Yet I think one misconception is that gender parity is a women's issue. In fact, it's a business challenge, because studies have shown that diverse teams generate greater performance. So both women and men need to continue to help women advance their careers. One thing that has surprised me, however, is watching how some of the most talented women need a deliberate push to take on broader leadership roles.

As a former co-chair of BNY Mellon's Women's Initiatives Network (WIN), I found that such an organization is not solely about providing a networking opportunity for women; it's about providing opportunities for greater visibility across a company. Performance is certainly critical to success, but exposure is equally important. Business resource groups, like WIN, afford participants the opportunity to take on leadership roles and gain visibility among senior leaders, while also helping the company in its effort to develop talent.

Through the years, I've compiled tips for positive career growth - tips that are based on my own experiences and also my observations and lessons learned from peers, mentees and mentors:

So, who's my 'HERo?' BNY Mellon's former President, Karen Peetz, has always inspired me. Her level of ambition and approach to strong leadership has stayed with me, and I work to emulate those traits and to encourage others to do the same.

We have to be 'HERoes ' for one another. Women must take charge of their careers and gain the confidence to speak up. Our male counterparts must also be champions with us, and foster an environment where people feel comfortable in voicing their perspectives. Collaboration creates an environment that enhances attraction and retention of top talent, and encourages growth and new thinking, not only impacting the success of people's careers, but making a company even stronger.

Jean Wynn was recently featured on the FT HERoes list, where she was recognized for her outstanding contributions and commitment to driving the greatest changes in women's careers.