076: It’s Never Too Late: career change, purpose and sustainability with Cristina Galindo (Copy)
This episode is sponsored by RPC.
Summary
In this live recording from event at RPC FIG Network, Sandra is joined by Sam Tymms for a powerful and honest conversation about what it really means to own your career.
Sam shares reflections from a career spanning regulation, advisory and governance, and speaks openly about the common traps women fall into when it comes to progression. Too often, women wait to be tapped on the shoulder, rely on their employer to plot the next step, or assume success will be recognised without saying a word.
Together, Sandra and Sam explore how career ownership starts with self-awareness, clarity and courage. From navigating networking with curiosity, to preparing for non-executive roles, this episode unpacks what it takes to get boardroom-ready and why authenticity and failure are essential parts of leadership.
The conversation also dives into the evolving nature of diversity and inclusion in financial services, and how regulation, unconscious bias and cultural expectations continue to shape the experience of women in the industry.
Whether you're just starting out, pivoting mid-career or stepping up into leadership, this episode is a reminder that you are your own best advocate, and that sisterhood, celebration and support go a long way.
Takeaways
Women often don't do enough to own their career
Outsourcing your career management can hinder progress
Success looks and feels different at every stage, and that’s OK
Networking works best when you lead with curiosity
Sisterhood is about support and empowerment
Non-executive roles can provide valuable experience
Know your value and be ready to articulate it in board setting
Diversity and inclusion discussions are evolving
Networking can be less intimidating with the right mindset
Career ownership is essential for professional growth. Diversity and inclusion are ongoing challenges in financial services
Regulatory interviews often lack awareness of gender dynamics
Future leaders must be tech-savvy and self-aware
Authenticity is crucial in leadership; accept your strengths and weaknesses
Failure is a natural part of career growth
Recognising personal value is essential for career advancement
Cultural perceptions can influence women's career choices
Self-doubt can create barriers to success
Owning your career means challenging societal expectations
Celebrating achievements fosters a supportive professional community
About the Guest
Connect with Sam Tymms on LinkedIn
About the host
Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn
Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective