In this insightful podcast episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Mary O’Connor, a trailblazer who became the first female CEO of a Big Four firm. Her journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
O’Connor’s background is anything but traditional. She started her career as a lawyer, working as a prosecutor and then transitioning to the UK legal landscape. Her experience in the public sector and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments ultimately led her to KPMG, where she was tasked with addressing the firm’s governance, controls, and cultural challenges.
One of the key takeaways from O’Connor’s leadership approach is the importance of listening and empowering others. She emphasizes the need to understand the perspectives and concerns of the people within the organization, rather than imposing top-down solutions. By fostering psychological safety and creating an environment where everyone feels heard, she was able to unlock the collective potential of the KPMG team.
Another fascinating aspect of O’Connor’s journey is her transition from the public sector to the private sector. She highlights the need to balance commercial considerations with a commitment to doing the right thing, a philosophy she calls “doing well by doing good.”
The discussion also touches on the topic of diversity and inclusion, a subject that is particularly relevant in the corporate world. O’Connor acknowledges the challenges of driving change in traditional, hierarchical organizations, but she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the need to create opportunities for underrepresented groups.
One of the most compelling insights from the conversation is O’Connor’s perspective on the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). She argues that while NDAs can serve a legitimate purpose in protecting sensitive information, they can also be misused to silence victims and enable perpetrators. Her call for a more thoughtful and risk-based approach to the use of NDAs highlights the need for ethical leadership and a commitment to transparency.
This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, organizational transformation, and the evolving landscape of the corporate world. Mary O’Connor’s insights and experiences offer a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern business and driving positive change.
Listen and subscribe here: https://podfollow.com/1773055569
