"Leaders must be willing to invest in others"
How do you encourage cooperation and team spirit within the bank?
I employ a combination of strategies to encourage cooperation:
- Having an open mind: Though I may have an opinion, I am open to the input from all sources.
- Encouraging other to share: Ask those who may appear shy, quiet or conflicted to share their opinions.
- Personally contributing: Share my thoughts and opinions whenever they may be required to help shape the discussion or decision as clearly and concisely as possible.
- Collaborating: Reaching out to colleagues not just within VP Bank (BVI) Ltd but within the VP Bank group.
When applicable, getting a cross section of feedback usually results in better decisions and actions.
What are you doing to support diversity and inclusion within the bank?
I always aim to promote a positive and productive working environment where team members feel valued, respected and opinions heard. VP Bank (BVI) Ltd is a small multicultural team and the VP Bank Group is more diverse. I support and embrace opportunities to collaborate which strengthen relationships, enhance innovation empowering team members to contribute to making the bank the best working environment.
How do you ensure that the bank meets the needs of its clients?
My role does not require direct client contact, however, I support the client-facing team members by ensuring our tools and platforms function seamlessly, while always seeking to optimize processes and procedures that balance client satisfaction, risk mitigation and overall efficiency.
What moments or experiences at VP Bank have stood out in your mind?
I would say the last three years to present are currently stand-out moments in my VP Bank career: coming out of a global pandemic and dynamic shifts needed in leadership.
One of the biggest take-aways from the pandemic (from a professional perspective) is that organizations must adapt to change rapidly and leverage technology in a calculated risk-based approach, which was demonstrated by VP Bank as a group and VP Bank (BVI) Ltd.
Leaders should always seek to develop the future leaders that may be among them: those new recruits or that reliable team member. Leaders must be unselfish and willing to invest in others, while still investing in themselves because at times we do not know when a new leader (in whatever capacity) is needed and developing leaders within builds strength and continuity.
What are your personal goals and ambitions for the future of the bank?
Personally, I take great pride in sharing my banking experience with all, but more so, mentoring new and younger bankers. The experiences that aided in my professional growth can add insight and clarity to challenges that those new to the industry may encounter. So, if each generation of bankers are well trained and coached, the future of VP bank (BVI) Ltd is destined to be bright as they build on the experiences of generations before while infusing the knowledge and experiences of today.
I am also excited about thoughts of existing and new clients fully embracing our digital eBanking platform for their routine banking needs to allow our exceptional client advisory team to continue to give clients the advice and service they need and deserve.
