MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT

  HANNAH BERNARD

  Head of Business Banking

Barclays

Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.

Who or what inspires you?

I’m so inspired by people who have overcome adversity, whether that’s disadvantage, disability, trauma, or a challenging personal journey. I’ve come across many powerful examples within the teams I work with and in the form of fabulous entrepreneurs. I’m in awe of drive, resilience and tenacity.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received?

If you want to progress in any career or company, don’t constrain yourself to your current role. Think about the role you want next, and the one after that. Keep learning and make your experience as broad as possible by stepping out of your comfort zone as often as possible.

What three words describe how you approach work?

Diligent, impatient, pragmatic.

Do you have any wellbeing tips you could share?

Set a routine, but make sure you set the right routine for you! Bad habits can form that prevent you from prioritising your own well-being, so keep an eye on them and consciously break a routine if it’s not serving you and your life. Don’t feel guilty about having a balance—a happier and healthier you will be better for your loved ones and your organisation in the long term.

What has been your greatest accomplishment in your career so far?

I’m really lucky to be in a role that I absolutely love, supporting small and medium businesses with a fantastic team of passionate Barclays colleagues. Add to that the privilege of being able to advocate for diversity and inclusion in banking, as well as investment in female entrepreneurs through the Invest in Women Taskforce, and I’m so very proud of what we do.

What advice would you give to aspiring women professionals in the Banking industry?

GO FOR IT!

 Don’t temper yourself or your ambitions. Be bold in owning your choices, shaping your own narrative, and building a strong support network. My husband is my biggest champion and cheerleader and makes me feel anything I want to do is achievable. Make sure you have a strong and supportive network around you!