Broadening the conversation: How employee networks expand perspectives

Taipei-based business manager Ivy Hsieh brings more than a decade of experience and a deep sense of purpose to her role at Societe Generale. 

Since joining the Bank in 2011, her career journey — from Shanghai to Taiwan — has been defined not only by her professional expertise but by her commitment to bringing new perspectives and fostering inclusion in the workplace.

After four years in Shanghai, Ivy relocated to Taiwan in 2015. Today, she serves as a business manager in the Global Markets (MARK) division and plays a pivotal role in shaping the Bank’s culture of openness, diversity, and empowerment.

Launching SGForShe in Taiwan

In 2019, Ivy founded the Taiwan chapter of SGForShe, Societe Generale’s Gender Network, as part of the Bank’s broader diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) strategy, for the Asia Pacific region. This initiative aims to strengthen connections with other locations while blending internal and external voices to broaden awareness.

In 2023, the team celebrated International Women’s Day through an event featuring Societe Generale Asia Pacific CEO Cecile Bartenieff and former Taiwan Representative to France Dr Michel Ching-Long Lu, with the duo speaking on the #EmbraceEquity theme for the year and sharing personal and diplomatic insights on gender equity in France and Taiwan. 

Another event later in the year brought together senior male leaders who tackled topics such as sharing domestic responsibilities, navigating financial decisions, and advocating for a better balance of resources to support gender equity across society. Their openness underscored SGForShe’s inclusive approach — one that welcomes all voices and perspectives, regardless of gender. 

Expanding learning through diverse perspectives

Other events Ivy organised included a session on Generative AI led by a representative from the Pan-Science Academy, with live demos of cutting-edge tools and insights into emerging trends. 

Other SGForShe discussions in Taiwan have addressed themes like fintech, elder caregiving, and parenting. 

Ivy is especially proud of an event with the inspiring “Jet Grandmom” — a woman who, despite knee problems at 58, went on to win over 50 track medals and summit Mount Kilimanjaro at 79.

“I truly enjoy the giving process,” she says. “It’s rewarding to know that something we helped create has benefited others.

Each event is a collaborative effort. Ivy and three colleagues from different departments brainstorm themes, secure speakers, and handle logistics — all while managing full-time roles.  

Flexibility that enables balance

At home, Ivy also manages life as a working mother of two daughters. She credits Societe Generale’s flexible working culture — including flexible work arrangements and dependent leave — for allowing her to balance career and caregiving responsibilities.

She has also participated in the Women in MARK coaching programme, designed to empower women across the division. Now, she shares that same spirit of support with others.

Her advice to working mothers: “Speak up and advocate for yourself. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Show your capabilities, use your achievements to negotiate, and never underestimate the importance of professionalism and balance.”

She offers similar guidance to young women entering the industry: stay curious, take risks, explore mobility opportunities, and find your place by leveraging your strengths.

Ivy’s journey reflects a deep truth: that business success and social impact need not be mutually exclusive. Her efforts — from organising inclusive events to mentoring others — demonstrate how grassroots leadership can help shape an organisation’s culture. 

Societe Generale places DE&I at the heart of its role as a responsible employer. Across Asia Pacific, women comprise 44% of the workforce, representing 62 birthplaces and averaging seven years of service.  

It is through the everyday commitment of people like Ivy — who lead with empathy and act with intention — that the Bank’s values of team spirit, innovation, responsibility and commitment come to life.