International Women’s Day 2025 – Meet Susie So, Head of IT, UK

"International Women's Day 2025 serves as a vital reminder of the progress we've made, and the work still ahead, in achieving gender equality. ABN AMRO is committed to empowering women at every level, recognising that diverse perspectives drive innovation and success. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of our colleagues, and women worldwide, and reaffirm our dedication to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to excel. Together, we can continue to break barriers and build a future where equality is the norm, not the exception." Gerben Dragt, UK Country Executive, ABN AMRO

Today, we speak with Susie So, Head of IT, UK and Board Member of Leading Ladies (ABN AMRO global senior female network).

What inspired you to pursue a career in IT and finance?

After a graduate placement in my hometown of Brisbane, I moved to London where I was excited for a new challenge. I often found I was naïve to any limitations, glass-ceiling barriers or the industry's general perception of women in IT. My family encouraged me from a young age 'to ask' - a habit I now instil in my own children, those I mentor, and those I feel need support to speak up. And today at ABN AMRO where I oversee IT - much of my role is about asking - to understand more, to hear diverse opinions and also to be heard. I work closely with our head office in the Netherlands to bring strategic innovation initiatives locally. The shared openness, in part due to the blend of Dutch and English cultures alongside a robust leadership, means we can readily embrace change, foster forward thinking and serve as a strong model for workplace diversity. This in turn, ensures a positive experience for our clients and UK growth.

What does this year’s theme of #Accelerate Action mean to you?

This year's theme, #AccelerateAction, is crucial. As an Asian woman well into my career and a mother of two, I've worked tirelessly throughout my career to prove my value. Through an awareness of intersectionality I wish for gender parity now, and not in the estimated five generations the World Economic Forum data indicates.

Ultimately, I hope for my 9-year-old daughter to stand equal. This for me means engendering equality from a young age and needs the support of strong male allyship. During a kitchen-table talk with my children about the gender pay gap it led to a heartwarming agreement for equal pocket money, showcasing gender parity and sibling support. Allyship isn't a 'nice to have', it is a must-have to achieve change. At ABN AMRO, such allyship is key to our culture, part of the diversity and inclusion discussion and role-modelled in leadership.

And lastly but most importantly, women must work together to create change. Achieving impactful change on a larger scale requires time, but a touch of impatience can often serve as a catalyst to keep the momentum going.

What advice would you give others looking to start a career in IT and finance?

I don’t believe in searching for a singular, definitive “career” path. What truly matters is not just mastering your craft and adding skills but developing who you are. Be trustworthy, take accountability, form your own voice, own your mistakes, be ready for opportunities and be willing to pivot. Stay adaptable, stay curious and be present.

IT and Finance are exciting fields with plenty of opportunity to develop and grow. I’d advise those thinking of a career in either field that they are great places for the curious to pursue their passions and always be learning. If that sounds like you then go for it! Learn from mentors, be inspired by role models, but carve your own path.

We will continue our drive to ensure these are sectors where people can bring their authentic selves to work. It is that diversity of thought and opportunity for experience that makes this a dynamic career for people from all backgrounds and skillsets.

What are you most proud of in your career and in your role as Head of IT?

This year marks a bold step in the bank's commitment to a scaled adoption of Generative AI for our colleagues. We have set out with a strong vision: to harness AI in a way that not only enhances efficiency but also truly empowers our employees and thereby delivers meaningful value to our clients. Looking forward, AI will transform the way we work - making interactions smarter, faster, and more intuitive.

This is just the beginning, and I’m optimistic about the future - where AI continues to drive innovation while keeping people at the heart of everything we do.