Unlocking Success in FS Regulation with Jennifer Horsfield

I'm delighted to introduce Jennifer Horsfield, a regulatory leader who embarked on her compliance career during maternity leave, eventually rising to the position of Head of Compliance, a role which she's undertaken at some of the most recognisable firms in the UK. Despite being immersed in a male dominated world for many years and navigating the male-only boardroom, plus the pressures of single parenthood, she forged ahead with her career and has emerged as a role model, eager to help others on a similar path. Jennifer's story illustrates that gender should never limit one's aspirations in the FS industry. She offers some great tips and advice for women at all career stages, making this article a must-read.

Could you explain how you started in your career and how you’ve reached the position that you’re in today?

A previous boss suggested I studied compliance when on maternity leave as he needed a new Compliance Officer. I then went on to be promoted to Head of Compliance.?

Back then compliance was a new career and most of us came from the front office.

Did you encounter any specific barriers or obstacles when building your career that could be attributed to your gender, and how did you overcome these?

Not really, though it was a very male world for many years. I was the only female on the board or EXCO.

How do you think that your unique perspective as a female leader might have contributed to any of your career achievements or success to date?

One of the things I am most proud of is developing others, this largely came from watching my own children step in to the work force and getting a better understanding of their frustrations.

What positive changes, if any, have you seen over the course of your career in terms of gender diversity in your industry and what strategies or initiatives have brought about these changes?

When I started out I was the only female who was not a secretary, or receptionist.

I don’t think this is the case anymore. In compliance it seems to be pretty much 50/50.

However I think it does seem to get tougher again over 50 for women,

I think we can thank the press for that!

How do you maintain a strong sense of well-being in, what can be, a stressful and pressurised working environment?

Personally I love and thrive on a bit of stress and pressure, however work has never come before my children, but I don’t think it should for anyone, male or female, and most men I know would equally take time out for family if necessary.

How do you strike a healthy work-life balance and juggle conflicting demands on your time and energy?

As a single parent I have had to be very organised (it's chaos but organised chaos) with a good (paid for) support system in place. Sometimes things have to give. It's normally washing the floor or relaxing at the hair-dresser (that’s where I read most of my regulation), or forgoing the office “parties”

Have you ever suffered with ‘imposter syndrome’??What advice would you give to women who grapple with self-doubt as they’re climbing the career ladder?

Yes always! I think this is more marked for females who struggle to put themselves out there. I have been blessed by having good bosses who have pushed me forward but also try to do the same for others.

My advice would be to talk and LISTEN to others around you. As you get to know your subject inside out you will be respected for your abilities.

How important have you found your network to be during your career? How would you advise a junior to start to build a strong professional network?

Network is very important, don’t be shy like I was.

If you meet someone add them to your LinkedIn.

If you have a question about something new, call someone you met at a conference from another firm, attend events etc.

Have you had any significant mentors throughout your career? How did they contribute to your success as a female leader?

Not specifically mentors but some good role models and good bosses.

What are your thoughts on the future of FS regulation in the coming years and women’s place at a senior level within it?

My view is it is not gender specific as everyone has life going on. However I don’t see enough female NEDS or board execs in business driving roles.

Do you have any more observations or advice that might help women entering the world of FS regulation today?

My answer to anyone entering work today is be patent and flexible, jobs you may be doing in 5-10 years time have not even been dreamt of yet.

Learn something new every day and don't get too caught up in the weeds or office politics.?