As part of PA Life’s series of interviews during Women’s History Month in March, with a theme Women Leading the Change, we talk to Senior Manager, Eija Hakkinen, who leads the events team at the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI) in London…
This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is a call for us all to think about what far reaching implications are possible when women are welcomed leadership positions. “Women Leading the Change” is a call for a lasting change everywhere – in geopolitics as well as within our workplaces.”
We ask Eija how her leadership in the global events sector is shaping her team and what matters most to her:
As a senior events professional, you lead a global programme of events, conferences and awards.
What does “women leading the change” mean to you in the context of leading an events team at the CISI?
“CISI is a signatory to the Women in Finance Charter, has a female CEO, supports professional mentoring schemes and internships. We have also established and run several initiatives around Women in Finance including educational and networking events, as well as an internal DEI working group. I feel strongly supported whilst navigating the busy world of events (we run over 300 events per year) and leading, empowering and championing my team.”
The events industry is often female-led operationally but not always at senior decision-making levels.
How have you navigated your own leadership journey, and what changes have you seen along the way?
“A leadership journey is a continuous process of self-discovery, growth and adaptation. I would say it all comes with experience and learning from the people you meet during your journey whilst building your own confidence, knowledge and skills. You learn the styles and approaches you want to follow as well as the ones you want to avoid repeating in your own leadership.
I have been managing events and event teams for a long time and I have seen a lot of changes during my journey. From technology (AI!) to more inclusive cultures, the way we look after people and the importance of wellbeing, including mental health.
We all appreciate the flexibility and more hybrid working patterns these days. My team and I come to the office twice a week but we still ensure we have constant communication, weekly team meetings, regular one-to-one meetings and inclusivity in planning and decisions.”
Managing a global events programme means working across multiple offices and cultures.
What leadership qualities are essential when guiding diverse teams and stakeholders across regions?
“We are all individuals and it is very important to adapt to the people around you. It is important to get to know your team/s and the different personalities; to listen, learn and to understand. Communication is the key and it is important that everyone understands the common goals and objectives as well.
Personally I have been helped by the fact that I have lived in several countries including Finland, Germany, South Africa and the UK and I have also travelled widely. I have a strong interest in different languages, cultures and people.”
Events professionals are increasingly strategic partners within organisations.
How do you ensure your team’s expertise and insights influence wider business goals and not just event delivery?
“Communication, communication, communication. We are being part of various working groups, committees and conversations. Having an open conversation and sharing information and feedback is very important.”
Supporting and developing talent is key to building strong teams.
How do you empower the next generation of women in your events team to grow in confidence, leadership and influence?
“By being inclusive and involving everybody in the conversation, planning and decision making as well as providing visibility for the team. I let the team to be themselves and actively seek personal development opportunities for themselves. Mentoring, guiding and supporting the younger generation is very important to me and it is also something I really enjoy doing.”
Looking ahead, what positive changes would you most like to see for women working in events and professional services over the next decade?
“My team and I are lucky with our hybrid working model. I know there are still events professionals who are ‘on call’ 24/7 and where their wellbeing is overlooked. Work-life balance and flexible working are key. I also strongly support mentoring schemes and other similar support networks and professional development programmes. Other key qualities of a supportive environment for men and women are equality, recognition, respect and safe work environment.
More interview around the theme women leading the change:
Earlier this month, to mark International Women’s Day, talked to Sarah Beall, MD and Carly Walker, Commercial Director – both at Forum Events and Media Group.
