As a global leader, Gayle reveals her strategies for ensuring personal growth and how she develops strong, successful partnerships.
Who is a person that you considered as a role model early in your life? How and why does this person impact your life?
Both my parents are amazing role models to me and have supported me to achieve everything that I wanted to. Since I was a little girl, my parents have made me believe I can do anything – which has been amazing for me and has given me the confidence to try new things and stretch myself. Even now, I talk through problems and challenges with my mum and dad and they give me great insight and support.
What is the most important characteristic that every leader should possess?
In today’s fast-moving world, it is important that leaders are change agents, can manage and drive change and are resilient.
What are you doing daily to ensure your growth and development continues as a leader?
I am intellectually curious – I ask questions and more questions. I am excited about learning new things. I learn something new every day – this is one thing I love about my job!
What’s the best book you’ve read this year?
The best book that I have read this year is one of my favourite books which is the art of travel by Alain De Botton. I recommend this to anyone who loves travelling, which I do.
When you’re considering partnering with another person or business, what factors are deal-breakers for you?
The key thing for me is trust and being able to trust each other explicitly. I also think the ability to challenge each other is key too.
About Gayle
Gayle Lacey has been with the HSBC Group for the last 13 years; working in The Middle East, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Latin America, Vietnam and Hong Kong.
Based in London, Gayle is currently the Global Head of Business Management for Commercial Banking, and is driving the change agenda for the business globally.
Prior to this, Gayle ran the UK Business Banking business, which supports over a million start-ups and companies with a turnover of up to GBP500k develop and grow.
Gayle graduated from Bath University in the UK with a B.Sc. in International Management. Gayle describes herself as a Francophile and has recently bought a home in the South West of France, where she goes to relax and escape the city life.
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