Liz Hogbin, business strategy director – retail, Lloyds Banking Group

From management consulting to retail banking

I graduated in 1996 with an economics degree and spent the first eight years of my career as a management consultant, working across a variety of industries worldwide. Consulting taught me the importance of adaptability and well-reasoned, logically structured communication, both of which I put into practice in my next role.

I wasn’t looking to leave but a client at a large private bank created a strategy position for me. Half my time in consulting had been spent working with financial services firms so it wasn’t too difficult to make the transition.

A change of scene – and sector

I then made a permanent move to the UK, which was daunting – I was eight months pregnant and the UK retail banking market was entirely new to me. I got through it by sticking to my personal rule of always working alongside inspirational people. My old boss talked me into meeting with the retail CEO of Lloyds Banking Group and I was so blown away by her vision and passion that I decided to turn down offers from other private banks and join Lloyds Banking Group instead.

'Make the most of existing networks – it’s the conversations you don’t anticipate will lead anywhere that often turn out to be the most significant.'

The relevance of retail

Every major life event and decision – from buying a first home to planning for retirement – is enabled by a retail bank. I enjoy working in a sector where what I do each day affects people’s lives.

My current role is about envisioning what the world will look like in the future, then formulating a plan to position the company for success. This means constant change and I enjoy the intellectual challenge involved.

Make the most of existing networks – I’ve found that it’s the conversations you don’t anticipate will lead anywhere that often turn out to be the most significant. Finally, do something you enjoy: it’s the best recipe for personal happiness and career success.