Female talent a critical must-have for companies to survive and thrive

MoneyMarketing speaks to Zanele Ntulini, CMO at life insurer FMI (a Division of Bidvest Life Ltd).

Numerous studies show that the performance of companies improves when their leadership is diverse regarding gender. Do you agree that women bring a different perspective to business?

Yes, I absolutely agree. Female leaders bring important leadership behaviours, qualities and skills that improve organisational performance such as people development, expectations and rewards, role modelling, inspiration and participative decision-making. Men and women bring something different to the table, so instead of trying to suppress our femininity in the workplace, we should embrace it because that is where our unique value proposition lies – and we should own it!

If you work hard, and are passionate about your job, the quality of your work will speak for itself

Do companies in SA work hard enough at attracting and retaining female talent?

I think there’s a growing realisation among South African businesses that female talent is not a ‘nice-to-have’, but a critical must-have for companies to survive and thrive – customers and stakeholders expect it and some even demand it. We’re increasingly starting to see organisations stepping up to the plate to attract and retain women, but we have some way to go.

FMI is one of the leaders in helping South Africans protect their incomes – do you think women today are sufficiently aware of the need to take out income protection policies?

No – but it’s not just women that need a greater awareness of the need to protect their income first. The fact is, financial conversations are still treated as taboo in many South African families. As an industry, we have a vital role to play in helping consumers protect their incomes in a tight and unpredictable economy. An income isn’t just a monthly salary – it’s the biggest factor that supports our lives, ambitions and dreams.

Tell us about some of the women who have inspired you along your journey to success.

My mom, who was a business owner her whole working life until her retirement, remains my biggest inspiration in everything I do. Her ‘nothing is impossible’ way of tackling life, excellence in everything she does, her brave and fearless spirit and being a mighty prayer warrior inspires me. I have three older sisters and we are complete opposites but complement each other well. They are phenomenal women who have taught me so much about carving my place and owning my space.

What advice would you give to young women looking for a career in the financial services sector?

If you work hard, and are passionate about your job, the quality of your work will speak for itself. But if I have one piece of advice to young women in the sector, it’s to get a mentor. That’s because mentors have ‘been there and done that’, they help you keep things in perspective and help you keep your eye on your goals. They help you build the networks and social capital that are critical for success in any sector. Most of all, they have invaluable guidance and practical advice around how they dealt with challenges and took opportunities.

Zanele Ntulini, CMO, FMI (a Division of Bidvest Life Ltd)