Pioneering Change Through Technology at Standard Chartered: Inshu’s Inspiring Journey of Innovation, Collaboration, and Inclusion

Inshu is a solutions-driven professional with a track record of solving complex problems. After graduating from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Inshu joined Standard Chartered in 2021 and is currently a Technical Lead. Through her role, Inshu contributes to upcoming technology innovations, manages key projects that have a significant impact on the Bank and works closely with leadership and development teams to deliver end-to-end solutions.

Why did you choose a career in Technology?

Gone are the days when learning technology was a mere option – it's now a vital aspect of modern life. My insatiable curiosity for cutting-edge technology that benefits humanity drives me to work in this dynamic field. Every day, I relish in developing innovative solutions that address real-world problems and make our lives easier. Being a part of the tech industry allows me to contribute to something greater than myself and help shape a better future.

What attracted you to join the Standard Chartered Technology team?

After graduating from the Indian Institute of Technology with a degree in Technology, I embarked on my journey with the Bank. Little did I know, Standard Chartered would soon become more than just my employer – it became my second family. From my first day at the Bank, I have never felt like just another cog in the wheel, but rather a valued member of the community.

I was drawn to working with Standard Chartered by its dynamic work culture, customer-centred goals and unwavering focus on innovation. I was thrilled to be a part of the Technology team, where I found myself surrounded by people who were not just colleagues but also confidants and mentors. My colleagues have always been eager to help me grow and develop my career.

Can you tell us a little bit about some of the projects you’re working on?

At Standard Chartered, opportunities to innovate are limitless. Throughout my journey, I've been fortunate enough to contribute to projects that push boundaries and challenge conventional norms. Notably, I've worked on initiatives related to enhancing women's security and incorporating robotics into banking operations. Currently, I'm thrilled to be a part of Project Pyramid, which involves working alongside my colleagues from Standard Chartered China and Singapore. My primary focus on the project is to devise efficient strategies to address user concerns and optimise our Reconciliation platform. By streamlining our processes and elevating our service standards, we aim to deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders.

What’s your proudest achievement since joining Standard Chartered?

Throughout my illustrious career at Standard Chartered, I've had the privilege of experiencing numerous moments of triumph and success. While it's hard to pinpoint just one, the China Hackathon holds a special place in my heart. As the product owner, I led the organisation of the first-ever hackathon conducted in China. This opportunity allowed me to showcase my leadership abilities, refine my time-management skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for effective stakeholder management. The experience was truly invaluable, and I am excited to apply the lessons I learned to drive further success in my career.

What do you love the most about your job?

Among the many things that fill me with enthusiasm for my job, meeting new people takes the cake. My role allows me to traverse the entire expanse of the Bank, engaging with diverse individuals from all walks of life to gain invaluable insights into their perspectives and concerns. Armed with these learnings, I can propose creative solutions that inspire positive change across the organisation. In addition to broadening my knowledge of different fields, I can forge valuable relationships with colleagues that transcend traditional boundaries, forming a true community of dynamic, forward-thinking individuals.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far in your role?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced in my role was aligning a team of diverse individuals around a single plan. As the team expanded, navigating the wide range of perspectives and opinions became increasingly challenging. However, I was able to gain support from my colleagues by focusing on solutions that benefit the entire team. This approach not only streamlined decision-making but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration, strengthening our collective performance and driving success.

How would you describe the culture in your team?

My team are more than just a group of colleagues - we’re a supportive community that promotes growth and development. Whether facing a tricky technical challenge or navigating a complex project, I can always count on my team to offer guidance, insights, and a listening ear. With their unwavering support and encouragement, I'm constantly motivated to push the limits of what I can achieve, deepening my knowledge and expanding my skillset with every new challenge.

What would surprise people about working at Standard Chartered?

At Standard Chartered, taking care of your well-being is as important as delivering top-notch results. The Bank goes above and beyond to prioritise its employees' mental and physical health, providing ample resources and support to ensure that we're feeling our best every day. Despite being one of the world's leading banks, Standard Chartered prides itself on its flat organisational structure, meaning that every voice is heard, and every team member is empowered to make a real difference.

What advice would you give to young women looking to build a career in technology?

I strongly recommend young women hoping to enter a career in technology to continuously upskill. In this dynamic world, staying updated with the latest technologies is crucial. Continuously learning and mastering new skills will give you a competitive edge in any role you choose to pursue, unlocking the vast ocean of knowledge and opportunities available. So, keep expanding your horizons, embrace new challenges, and strive to be at the forefront of innovation.

How have you progressed to a leadership role in a male-dominated industry?

Breaking through the glass ceiling in a male-dominated industry has required continuous hard work and smart thinking. I am constantly expanding my knowledge base and seeking guidance from my superiors and subordinates. I thrive on taking up new challenges and projects, which broadens my horizons and enables me to devise innovative solutions to tackle complex problems. Every success is cherished, while every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow – keeping this mantra in mind, I am able to progress and reach greater heights.