In this role, Debora is a sparring partner and an advisor for the banking sector. ‘They are facing the challenge of operating in a world of ever increasing regulations, a world in which they must continue to innovate in order to remain relevant market players, while they are also expected to pursue their purpose and fulfill their role in society. This interplay is highly complicated, and there are many boxes for them to tick. ‘Work smarter, not harder’ As a result, the traditional approach to Risk Management and Compliance is becoming obsolete. They need to invest in an optimisation of their Compliance Risk Management: “Work smarter, not harder”. This is a very interesting playing field in which content expertise, strategy, data, technology and human intervention come together, so that’s the focus of my job.’

A broad role ‘The enormous pressure from various sides leaves little room for banks to consider the direction they want to take as an organisation. We can help them by being a sparring partner and an advisor, and by creating that room for them. So that is what I do each day: increasing the efficiency, effectiveness and demonstrability of their Compliance Risk Management. From strategy to culture, governance, policy and commerce: the Regulatory Risk support we provide covers the entire chain. My work is not limited to one role or task. I’m involved in stakeholder management, in maintaining client relations, in client advisory, and – ever since I became a (senior) manager – in leading and supporting the project team.’ Growth path ‘The year prior to your promotion you already operate at the next level. Within my career path at Deloitte, this was the obvious next step, but even then: you need to do this yourself. Show who you are and what you are capable of, and put in the effort. For instance, my ambition was to work abroad for a while, and now I am being offered that opportunity. I was selected for the North and South Europe (NSE) Ambassador Exchange Programme. In November, I will be leaving to work for our London Deloitte host firm for a year. The goal of this exchange programme is to encourage NSE member firm integration, to increase connectivity, and to make our skill set even more diverse based on the experience of working in another culture and facing challenges there.’

People manager Debora uses her vast experience and eye for other cultures to be the best leader she can possibly be. She describes herself as a “people manager”. ‘Only very capable people work here and everybody is equally valuable. I believe that if you recognise someone’s strength you can always build a dream team. It’s important for me that we also see strength in diversity. In teams, with stakeholders. That also means that a balance between men and women isn’t enough for me, because that in itself doesn’t mean much. Who is this person and how can they enrich each other?’

Inclusion and diversity Her passion, drive and vigour aren’t limited to her daily work with clients and colleagues. Inclusion and diversity in the office are vital to Debora, who was born in the Netherlands and has Eritrean roots. ‘A year ago, Deloitte started the Cultural Reversed Mentorship programme, in which I was involved from the very start. It joins senior leadership partners with mentors for personal coaching, feedback and guidance in the field of inclusive leadership, from a cultural Inclusiveness & Diversity point-of-view. It’s wonderful to see how open and vulnerable people from senior leadership level are when it comes to their own challenges and insecurities in this field. Deloitte encourages self reflection, but reflects on itself as well. That is why this is such a great organisation to work for and with.’ Open conversation is valued highly at Deloitte. The style of communication was one of the reasons why Debora returned to Deloitte. ‘Everyone is addressed and treated equally and you are always encouraged to make yourself heard. That is what I would say to everyone: make yourself heard, speak up. In fact, this is actually expected of you. And anything is possible, as long as you really want it. If you’re ready for the next step in your development, a team of colleagues is ready to help you advance and achieve this. The willingness to help you achieve your own goals and the high expectations that push you to keep developing yourself, make Deloitte the perfect place to work for me.’

CHOOSE YOUR IMPACT You will share your talent with the 900 colleagues of Deloitte The Netherlands various Strategy, Risk & Transactions Advisory departments. Within our teams, cooperation and personal development are key. View all Strategy, Risk & Transactions Advisory vacancies [https://careersatdeloitte.com/vacancies/strategy-risk-transactions-advisory] and connect your future to Deloitte. View all Strategy, Risk & Transactions Advisory vacancies [/vacancies/strategy-risk-transactions-advisory]