Connecting Minds: Interview with Software AG's Sanjay Brahmawar & Sharon Doherty

Summary

In this insightful conversation at the Science Museum, the guest discusses leadership challenges amidst rapid change, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and agile methodologies in the banking industry. The discussion covers strategies for engaging talent, fostering diversity and inclusion, and the role of technology in shaping these aspects. The guest, a senior HR leader at Lloyd's Banking Group, shares her perspective on creating an environment where employees can thrive, the significance of addressing immediate needs, and the potential impact of global trends on diversity and inclusion.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The guest is a senior HR leader with a career spanning across companies like Vodafone, Finestra, and Lloyd's Banking Group, highlighting her expertise in leadership and organizational change.
• 👩‍💼 As a champion of equality and inclusion, she emphasizes the importance of these values in the workplace, especially in the current dynamic environment.
• 🔄 The discussion underscores the rapid pace of change in today's world, with the need for leaders to adapt quickly and inspire their teams amidst challenges like COVID-19 and economic shifts.
• 🛠️ The importance of developing leaders who can manage change is highlighted, with the example of Lloyd's Banking Group's new executive team and their transformation program.
• 🌐 The leader's global mindset and understanding of technology are identified as key traits for effective leadership in the modern world.
• 💡 The concept of adopting a 'software mindset' in all industries is introduced, promoting agile practices like 90-day sprints and minimum viable products.
• 🏦 Lloyd's Banking Group is noted for its preparedness for challenges, being 'match fit' for various issues due to its nature as a financial institution.
• 🤝 The company's investment in leadership development through workshops and an outside-in approach to foster a broader perspective on opportunities and challenges.
• 💰 The script mentions Lloyd's Banking Group's proactive response to the cost of living crisis, including financial support for employees and pay rises targeting junior staff.
• 👥 The emphasis on creating an engaging environment through always-on listening, addressing immediate needs, and planning for a more inclusive future.
• 🔮 Anticipation of the impact of global trends on diversity and inclusion, including potential advancements and setbacks, and the critical role of technology in shaping these outcomes.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the discussion in the video?

The primary focus of the discussion is leadership in a challenging environment, engaging talent, diversity, and inclusion, particularly within the context of the banking group Lloyd's.

Why is the Science Museum an appropriate venue for this conversation?

The Science Museum is an appropriate venue because it houses iconic objects and stories about scientific achievements, making it a fitting place to discuss topics like leadership and innovation.

What is the significance of the speaker mentioning being a mom amidst her professional roles?

The speaker highlights her role as a mom to emphasize the balance she maintains between her personal life and her professional responsibilities, serving as a role model in both areas.

How does the pace of change impact leadership according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that the pace of change is accelerating, implying that leaders must adapt quickly, inspire their teams, and manage the dynamic environment effectively.

What is the role of the executive team at Lloyd's banking group in shaping leadership?

The executive team, led by Charlie Nunn, is responsible for setting the tone for leadership within the organization, emphasizing a growth mindset, global perspective, and modern ways of working.

Why is adopting a 'software mindset' important for companies today?

A 'software mindset' involving agile practices like 90-day sprints, retrospectives, and minimum viable products is important for companies to stay agile and responsive to rapid changes.

How does Lloyd's banking group approach preparing for unexpected events?

Lloyd's banking group practices for things going wrong, making the organization more 'match fit' to handle various challenges that may arise due to the changing external environment.

What is the significance of the workshops conducted at the Science Museum for Lloyd's top 300 leaders?

The workshops aim to broaden the leaders' perspectives by encouraging them to look outside the organization and consider the future opportunities that change might bring.

How is Lloyd's banking group engaging its talent amidst transformation?

Lloyd's is on a journey to redefine its approach to people, focusing on creating a compelling proposition that attracts and retains talent, and fostering an environment where people can thrive.

What steps has Lloyd's taken to support its employees during the cost of living crisis?

Lloyd's has implemented an always-on listening approach, provided a one-time £1000 payment to employees, and led the banking industry with an early pay deal, focusing on the most junior employees for an 8 to 13% pay rise.

What is the anticipated impact of technology on diversity and inclusion in the next five years?

Technology, particularly software and artificial intelligence, could be a powerful force for promoting diversity and inclusion or potentially exacerbate exclusion if not managed ethically.

How does the speaker view the future of diversity and inclusion in relation to intersectionality?

The speaker anticipates a shift towards a more sophisticated understanding of diversity and inclusion, focusing on intersectionality and recognizing individuals' multiple characteristics.