Breaking Barriers: Women in FinTech with Jacqueline O'Flanagan, Canadian Financial Services Industry Lead at Microsoft

Join us as we delve into the vibrant intersection of technology, finance, and diversity with Jacqueline O'Flanagan, the guiding force of Microsoft's financial services strategy in Canada. In this enlightening conversation, Jacqueline discusses the efforts to enhance women's roles in finance, the transformative power of AI in the sector, and Microsoft's commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive culture. This episode moves beyond a discussion of the current state of women in FinTech, offering a visionary look at the technological innovations driving the future of financial services.

Discussion Highlights:

• Trailblazing Women in FinTech: Jacqueline guides us through the evolving landscape for women in finance, highlighting both the strides made and the challenges that lie ahead. It's an honest assessment of the current situation and our collective goals for the future.
• Empowering Women at Microsoft and Beyond: Listen in as Jacqueline sheds light on the "Women at Microsoft" initiative, detailing its objectives, successes, and her personal journey in advocating for broader representation within tech and finance sectors. Additionally, we underscore the business impact of female leadership and diverse teams. [More info: "Learning from Women Who’ve Made It to the Top in Tech"].
• AI’s Transformative Impact on Finance: Discover how AI is revolutionizing the financial industry, from improving customer interactions to pioneering new approaches in risk management and sustainable practices.
• Diversity and AI Development: The critical importance of diversity in AI development is highlighted, focusing on efforts to mitigate gender biases in AI models. BCG research indicates that senior women in tech are leading the adoption of generative AI, demonstrating the value of inclusive perspectives in shaping future technologies. [More info: "Women ‘can lead the charge on GenAI’ in the workplace"].
• Technology for Environmental Good: Explore how Microsoft leverages technology for environmental sustainability, particularly through AI initiatives that enable financial institutions to support a net-zero economy.
• Career Advice for Women in FinTech: Jacqueline offers valuable advice for women aspiring to make their mark in financial technology, emphasizing the significance of a growth mindset, lifelong learning, and aligning personal values with professional paths.
• Envisioning the Future of Financial Services: Jacqueline shares her insights on potential future transformations within the financial services sector, including advancements in digital lending, payments, and the evolving regulatory environment.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

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