‘Lead with integrity, inspire with vision’

By Tony Sanchez 6th November 2024

In our latest Women in Finance Interview, Tony Sanchez speaks to Alex Upton, Managing Director, Specialist Mortgages & Bridging Finance at Hampshire Trust Bank.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Alex has played a key role in driving HTB’s growth and establishing it as one of the most trusted names in specialist lending.

Known for her collaborative leadership style, she is passionate about creating and nurturing an inclusive culture where innovation and teamwork thrive.

What brought you into financial services?

Honestly, it was the buzz of the industry that hooked me.

Financial services is fast-paced, constantly evolving, and full of opportunities to make a real impact.

I was drawn to the challenge of helping people and businesses navigate their financial journeys, especially when things get tricky.

Plus, who doesn’t love the thrill of solving a complex problem?

What do you think makes a successful leader? And in particular women leaders?

A successful leader listens, empowers, and stays adaptable.

It’s about creating an environment where your team feels valued and motivated.

For women leaders, empathy and resilience are particularly important.

Women often bring a different perspective to the table, combining emotional intelligence with strategic thinking, which can be a real asset.

What are the biggest barriers you have faced in your career in financial services?

Navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry was definitely a challenge early on.

There were moments when I felt I had to prove myself more than others.

But those experiences have made me more determined to break down barriers for other women in the industry.

Today, I’m proud to be part of an organisation that values diversity and is actively creating opportunities for everyone.

If you could tell your younger self one thing you know about business now, what would it be?

Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to take risks.

Business is all about learning, growing, and sometimes failing.

I’d tell my younger self to embrace the challenges and keep pushing forward, even when the path isn’t clear. It’s all part of the journey.

What’s your own personal mantra?

“Lead with integrity, inspire with vision.”

It’s all about setting a clear direction and being the kind of leader others want to follow.

Integrity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of everything we do.

What do you think is key for finding a successful work-life balance?

It’s all about setting boundaries and knowing when to switch off.

Work-life balance isn’t a myth, but it does require conscious effort.

I make it a point to be fully present, whether I’m at work or spending time with my family.

It’s about quality, not just quantity, and making sure you’re giving your best self to both worlds.

What’s one key leadership lesson you’ve learned along the way?

Collaboration is everything.

The best outcomes often come from team efforts, where everyone’s input is valued.

Encouraging open communication and being willing to listen to different perspectives has been crucial in my leadership journey.

What advice do you have for women aiming for leadership positions?

Believe in your abilities and don’t be afraid to step up.

Leadership isn’t about fitting a mould, it’s about being authentic and bringing your unique strengths to the table.

Find mentors, build a strong network, and make sure your voice is heard.

What do you think is holding women back?

It’s a mix of external expectations and internal self-doubt.

Women often feel they need to be over-prepared before stepping into leadership roles, while men might just dive in.

We need to shift that mindset and encourage women to take the leap, even if they don’t have all the answers yet. Confidence grows with experience.

Do you think there is still a glass ceiling?

Yes, the glass ceiling is still there, but it’s cracking.

We’ve made great strides, but there’s still more work to be done to ensure women have equal opportunities to rise to the top.

The key is to keep pushing, keep advocating, and keep showing that we belong in those leadership roles.

What are your thoughts on the Women in Finance Charter?

The Women in Finance Charter is a game-changer.

It’s about more than just talking the talk; it’s about holding companies accountable for real progress.

At HTB, we’re all in on these principles, and I’m proud of the steps we’ve taken to create a truly inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.

How do we encourage more women into financial services?

We need to start by showcasing how diverse and exciting a career in finance can be.

Mentorship, internships, and education are key to getting young women interested and equipped to enter the industry.

Once they’re here, it’s about nurturing their growth, providing the support they need, and making sure they see a clear path to leadership.

The gender pay gap is only second worst to the construction industry. What can organisations do to address this?

Transparency and accountability are crucial.

Regular pay audits and being open about the results are important first steps.

But it’s also about creating environments where women can advance their careers without hitting barriers—whether those are biased promotion practices or lack of flexible working options.

We need to address the root causes, not just the symptoms.