Click here to register for our free, weekly online newsletter, to receive information about our latest courses, experts, opinions and access to our network TV show, The Investment Series.
A conversation with Pauline Vamos for After Hours was almost like coming full circle for me. When I started our TV business over 10 years ago, Pauline was one of the first people I interviewed – and the words of wisdom she shared with me back then have remained stuck in my head to this day.
You see, Pauline is an unusual combination: highly intelligent, extremely technical (she is a lawyer that has a head for compliance, governance and regulation) and accomplished. Her last role, as the chief executive of ASFA (the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia), saw her take on many factions within the superannuation industry and not back down.
At the same time however, Pauline is, well, almost motherly. I say this in a very positive way (being a mum myself to three boys). Her advice is practical: 10 years ago she told me to have my work near the kids’ school and keep it as convenient as possible as I would be stretched. I took that advice and have always been grateful for it.
She asks genuine questions about your wellbeing, and she gets obviously affected when she tells an emotional story.
She makes fun of herself for her endearing lisp, and is warm, and generous with praise. In fact, Pauline is rare combination of the chief executive you would want to work for, the girlfriend you want to have in your life, and the mother that gives you the kind of advice that you desperately need.
Women who rise to the top in the world of financial services have always had to be particularly strong. Pauline is no exception. Yet her strength has never been at the sacrifice of her caring, or her integrity. She is an inclusive leader who desperately cares about people, and her instinct is to use her considerable skill set to protect them.
To sit down with people like Pauline and Mark Rantall is like a lesson in the kind of leader I would like to be – and to understand the challenges they faced along the way gives you some insight into what shaped them, motivates them, and what really matters.
This program is dedicated to revealing the very best of our leadership in financial services. It is to be celebrated and learned from. I am extremely grateful for the time and honesty allowed to us on the program. I know you will take away many valuable lessons, as I have.
Pauline has yet to take on her next full time role. Whatever it is, I know it will be a game changer. She is at the top of her game. Australia, and our industry, is lucky to have her on our side.
To watch the first part of Pauline’s episode, click here.
The opinions expressed in this content are those of the author shown, and do not necessarily represent those of No More Practice or its related entities. All content is intended for a professional financial adviser audience only and does not constitute financial advice. To view our full terms and conditions, click here.
