Sadaf I.

From mum to 3 boys to leading a team whilst completing a degree

One of the most important career moves that I made was making a lateral move from retail banking to business banking to be open to more opportunities. Was lucky to be promoted within the first 3 months of joining.

My team help businesses purchase assets to help them grow and expand

I manage a team of Asset Finance Specialists who support businesses across the UK to purchase assets. This helps the businesses to re-invest cashflow back into their business to allow them to meet their growth ambitions which directly links to our purpose of helping Britain Prosper.

Having a job that makes a difference to people -customers & colleagues

I have always had roles in customer facing teams which has allowed me to be closer to the customer and make a real difference to them or their businesses. Being a people manager gave me the opportunity to help individuals grow by motivating, supporting and developing them. Seeing colleagues flourish and progress in their careers is very fulfilling.

Be Authentic and never give up.

Always be comfortable to be your true self, work hard and keep your eye on the goal. The journey can be challenging and tough at times but not impossible.

I won REACH Role Model Award for 2024.

I carried out listening sessions alongside my colleague Oliede Usher with Ethnic Minority colleagues to understand the barriers they face when it comes to career progression. From the feedback of these sessions a pilot, Mentoring Programme has been launched in BCB for colleagues from an Ethnic Minority which will help them to secure a mentor and also provide them with the skills to help them with career progression.