The Supper Club once again combined the ‘pairing and sharing’ format - this time a whisky tasting session paired with savoury snacks - with an in-depth discussion of topical events and cultural practices within financial services.
The discussion focused on how female decision makers are perceived and whether their abilities to make choices are assessed too harshly.
Opinions varied within the group, with the lively debate questioning whether women are seen as 'too assertive' for making harsh choices, but conversely seen as 'too soft' or 'going against female intuition' when weighing up options or changing strategy based on receiving new information.
Attendees also discussed how their experiences within the financial services industry varied massively depending on their age, ethnicity, social class and ranking within the company, agreeing that while for the most part the industry had seen positive changes, there was still more to be done in ensuring equality in how women are perceived.
The next Women in Finance Supper Club will take place in August - if you are interested in attending, please contact Sophie Fuce on sophie@barcadiamedia.co.uk.
Liz Syms, CEO of Connect Mortgages, posed the challenge:
"Our role as leaders is to worry less about the method of decision making and more about finding the right answer by encouraging and supporting all our colleagues to be the best they can be in their roles for greater business success. Getting away from a one size fits all mentality is crucial – for men and women. This will give business and its people the versatility and agility required in today’s dynamic world."
Sophie Fuce, Events Manager at Barcadia Media, said:
"Our second Women in Finance Supper Club was a resounding success. It was fantastic to see previous attendees as well as new faces around the table, building on the powerful network we established at our first meeting. What’s great about the Women in Finance Supper Club is that it encourages an open debate in a friendly and supportive environment. I was delighted to hear a range of views which reflected different personal experiences. Supper Club continues to be both enlightening and inspiring!"
Rozi Jones, Editor of Financial Reporter, added:
"The Barcadia Media Women in Finance Supper Club once again provided a dynamic and positive space for women in the industry to exchange views and learn from a wide cross-section of the industry.
"Events like these are integral to ensuring that women have a venue outside of the workplace to debate, network, and discuss how the industry can better ensure equality for a wide range of women with different needs.
"Our second event was a great success and it's amazing to get the opportunity to have open conversations and share experiences with powerful and passionate women in our industry."
