On 8 March, the theme for International Women’s Day 2026 – ‘Give to Gain’ – challenges us to consider how a mindset of generosity and collaboration can foster a more inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive. It’s a powerful idea: by extending trust and actively supporting others to reach their full potential, the individual and the entire organisation benefits – from stronger performance and better decision-making to a more resilient culture.

Four senior female leaders from across the company have come together to reflect on how feedback, opportunities, and support throughout their careers have helped them achieve their goals. In turn, they are now giving back – reinforcing Julius Baer’s position as a prime spot for prime talent.

The importance of trust and feedback

Christina, CFO for Western Markets & Switzerland, studied international hospitality management, majoring in real estate and corporate finance, before transitioning into banking. Over the past 18 years at Julius Baer, she has moved internally into different leadership roles, each contributing to her professional and personal development. She comments: “I was often given additional responsibility in positions earlier than I expected. These opportunities were given to me, not because I was perfect, but because senior leaders believed I could grow into the role. Having leaders invest time and trust in me was an important part of my career progression. Trust comes with responsibility – ultimately, it is up to you to deliver on the opportunity you are given.”

Christina’s experience is mirrored by Antonia, Market Head Latin America, who joined Julius Baer at the start of 2026. Antonia credits managers placing trust in her with helping her build confidence. Reflecting on her decision to become a banker, she recalls: “I approached my manager about taking over a client book in Chile – a country I’d never been to before. They saw the strength of my conviction and handed me the opportunity. It was a clear sign that they believed in me, and it was a hugely positive moment for me. I’ve had so many managers who have backed me when I have been ready to move onto the next level.”

Strong female champions have shaped Victoria’s journey. The new Chief Compliance Officer and member of the Executive Board explains: “I’ve benefitted from individuals supporting me to achieve my potential. Without additional exposure, I wouldn’t have received internal recognition and progressed as I did.” One senior colleague proved to be instrumental. “My first female manager saw my abilities but also the challenges I was facing. She became a strong advocate for me; through her coaching and guidance, I was promoted within three years.” She adds: “Having good role models gave me pause to reflect – it really is true that you’ve got to see it to be it’.”

Receiving candid feedback also became a defining moment for Namrata. Now a Client Partner for South East Asia, Namrata is celebrating her 20‑year career anniversary in the same year that Julius Baer marks its own 20 years in Asia, the Bank's second home market. She recalls how a former manager advised her to reconsider her self-presentation to increase the impact of her ideas. “My audience was missing points because my excitement and passion meant I wasn’t being as clear as I could’ve been. Realising that my tone is crucial in delivering the message was pivotal. This helped to open doors for me.”

Paying it forward

While each of these leaders has benefited from others throughout their career, they are equally engaged on giving back to the leaders of tomorrow. All four stress that the conversation has moved on from a time when women felt they were competing for a single seat at the table. Today, the focus is on supporting colleagues and increasing collective visibility.

For Victoria, an active mentor in informal and formal programmes, creating a platform to elevate others is a responsibility she takes seriously. “It’s easier to become an enabler once you reach a certain level. I’ve consistently reflected on my experiences to think about how my successes or challenges I have overcome can be shared to help others. Tailoring support can help people step up when the opportunity is right.” She adds: “it’s important that everyone in the organisation feels empowered to contribute to our collective success.”

Namrata encourages others to seek out challenges as a way of becoming more visible. “You will never be 100 per cent ready to take on something new, but I always encourage others to take the chance. That’s what my former bosses, mentors, and leaders did for me. I want to do the same for others.” She points out: “It’s not about pushing people but about reassuring them that you are there to support and guide them throughout the process.”

The idea of coaching those who are stepping outside their comfort zone resonates strongly with Christina. “When I helped a colleague prepare a presentation for a senior audience, sharing my experience helped her to build confidence to perform at her best. This not only had an immediate impact for her, it also strengthened the outcome at a team level.”

The strengthening and resilience of individual teams is how Antonia envisions the organisation reaching its strategic goals. For her, it is clear how gender parity plays into the equation. She comments: “when men and women are equally represented in collective decision-making the outcomes are much more successful. Being able to think differently is what will make us stand out against the competition.”

Why inclusion matters

While International Women’s Day may appear to focus more on women than their male counterparts, a more equitable workplace benefits everyone. Collectively, the efforts of Christina, Antonia, Victoria, and Namrata demonstrate that ‘Give to Gain’ is not just a slogan; it is a daily leadership choice – one that leads to more engaged colleagues and a culture where everyone can succeed.

When trust is extended, feedback is shared openly, and opportunities are distributed fairly, the impact reaches far beyond individual careers. Teams become stronger, decisions become sharper, and organisations become more sustainable.

Ultimately, when we choose to give – whether through time, trust, mentorship, or advocacy – we all gain.