Women in Leadership: Spotlight on Nicola Heaume

How did you get into the industry?

Prior to joining the Pensions & Incentives team at ZEDRA, I worked for an international insurance company in the employee benefits department managing operations teams located in Guernsey and Ireland.

As I approached 50, and as a mum of a young child, a career change felt like a very scary prospect, but when the opportunity arose at ZEDRA where I could apply my transferable skills, I didn’t want to turn it down.

Four years down the line, it has absolutely been the best decision I could have made. My career has progressed rapidly in that time – including being promoted – and I’m managing my work-life balance thanks to an employer that understands how important that is.

What has been a key learning in your career?

Never underestimate your abilities and have confidence to make big changes in your life. Don’t let imposter syndrome stop you from achieving what you know you are truly capable of.

What would you say to someone considering a career in your industry?

International Pensions is such a great industry to work in with so many different options and career paths available to you. Whether you are just starting out, or are considering a change later in life, it’s a fascinating and rewarding line of work where you can fulfil your potential.

What are the opportunities and challenges you’re seeing in the industry?

We are living in a fast paced, changing world with ever evolving governance and reporting requirements – not to mention technological advances.

I think one of the key challenges for businesses right now is maintaining the balance between ensuring business targets are met, whilst continuing to meet all regulatory and reporting requirements.

Add to this the fact that more businesses than ever before have globally mobile workforces, and it’s increasingly important to implement well-designed retirement plans that meet the evolving needs of their international employees.

While I’ve pitched the above as challenges, they can be reframed as opportunities. Increased reporting obligations can help promote transparency and accountability, building trust with your stakeholders.

Although growing globally comes with a unique set of hurdles, most can be overcome with the right advisers at your side.

It’s a pleasure to work closely with our clients to tackle these challenges head on, achieving the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

To find out more about the ways in which Nicola and our Pensions & Incentives team in the Crown Dependencies and beyond support companies with international retirement and savings plans, get in touch.