Some recent research and articles have made the case that, in many ways, women are better at managing risk. Researchers have noted that women are more likely to seek outside advice on areas outside of their expertise as a smart risk-mitigation strategy.
Recruiting, developing and retaining women risk managers were the driving forces behind the establishment of the Women of Risk group in the second half of 2021. The group seeks to promote diversity in Risk Management and provide professional growth and networking opportunities.
And they’re off to a great start, having formed a steering committee and launched a website. Last week the group hosted their first event – on International Women’s Day.
The Regions group joined KPMG for a virtual panel discussion, Breaking the Bias. KPMG’s Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, Elena Richards, provided opening remarks. The panel discussion, moderated by KPMG’s Vice Chair, Growth and Strategy, Tandra Jackson, enabled panelists to share their stories and experiences on areas where they “break the bias” in their personal and professional lives.
Afterward, Women of Risk hosted Table Talks that gave Regions participants the opportunity to discuss the Breaking the Bias presentation and talk about how it relates to their own careers and personal lives.
Five Regions participants shared their thoughts on Women’s History Month and some key takeaways from the Women of Risk/KPMG event.
“Though the goal of diversity and gender parity remains constant across the industry, progress varies geographically. International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the courage of women in past generations and to celebrate how their efforts and bravery afforded women the opportunities and freedoms they have today which inspires us to collectively work toward progress. Coming from a diverse background, this topic resonates with me personally. I believe that by leaning on inclusive and diversified culture, a cross-section of talent can spur creativity which in turn improves productivity.”
“The Regions Women of Risk Table Talks promoted networking and empowerment of women within Risk Management. It brings visibility to a topic that until recently we didn’t discuss at work. The participants had amazing ideas for how we can better support each other and break the bias. It was encouraging that we had several men attend. The men were interested in how they could be advocates, allies and sponsors for women.”
“Recognizing International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month and attending events like the Women of Risk/KPMG panel discussions allow us to reflect on the many contributions made by other women – which encourages us to know that we can accomplish anything we put our minds to. It is important to me personally to be involved because I want to encourage the future generation that no matter your background, age, gender, race, etc., you can achieve your dreams with hard work and confidence.”
“One of my favorite quotes from the KPMG event is, ‘Having family is good for business’. I am a new mom and my life has changed dramatically, but I truly feel the changes are positive. I’m motivated to be a great example for my kid personally and professionally. I believe companies like Regions that care and value their associates will be rewarded in the long run.”
“I’m passionate about growing my career and want to enable and support other women to grow theirs, too. I want to share ideas and learn and grow from other women and if I’m lucky, help other women out while I’m at it! The panelists at the KPMG event were fantastic and each brought a different, important point of view. Elaine’s advice about how self-doubt can be your biggest hindrance really resonated with me. She said we should look at our achievements and skills and know our value!”
Bring Your Whole Self to Work
We have a passion for creating an inclusive environment that promotes and values diversity of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sex, pregnancy, and many other primary and secondary dimensions that make each of us unique as individuals and provide valuable perspective that makes us a better company and employer. More importantly, we recognize that creating a workplace where everyone, regardless of background, can do their best work is the right thing to do.
OFCCP Disclosure: Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans