Why we’ve partnered with Women in data…

HSBC was founded on the strength of different experiences, attributes and voices; they are integral to who we are and how we work. We know we’re better when we reflect the communities we serve, the diversity of thinking it brings results in better outcomes for our customers and our colleagues. So, we champion inclusivity. We listen. We remove unnecessary barriers.

Our approach to data, technology and innovation will be critical in delivering on our priorities of customer-centricity, focused sustainable growth and being simple and agile. We are working to close the gender gap in careers across these areas – because we know that the different ideas and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings enables us to innovate and grow.

Partnering with Women in Data supports our work to address the gender gap in careers across data, analytics and AI. This collaboration is not just about opening doors – it’s about unlocking real opportunities, investing in talent and ensuring the right people have a seat at the table.

spotlights

Carly_Macic
Carly Macic
Managing Director Data, Analytics and AI Asia and Middle East, Corporate Institutional Banking
anu_photo (1)-high resolution
Dr. Anusuya Kirubakaran Ph.D., MCA., MBA.,
Lead Assistant Vice President, Digital Banking Service Analytics, Data and Analytics Office
Sofia_Zanon
Sofia Zanon di Valgiurata
Head of AI Enablement Corporate and Institutional Banking COO
HSBC
Nicola_Hobson-Langley
Nicola Hobson-Langley
Manging Director Head of Design and Delivery, HSBC UK Bank PLC
Jenny_Jin
Jenny Jin
Group Head of AI platforms, Innovations and Ventures
Elif_Erol
Elif Erol
Global Head of Data Analytics Insurance
“We deliver better outcomes for our customers by having a culture anchored in diverse thinking and inclusion.”

How HSBC see the data landscape changing in the next 5 years

The increasing convergence of AI, real-time analytics, and evolving regulatory expectations is changing the data landscape, the way we work, and our industry. Our teams of experts in the field are working with AI, big data, machine learning models, and robotics to create personalised solutions leveraging cutting-edge technology to serve the evolving needs of our customers. We develop data-driven solutions that empower our customers and clients to reach their financial objectives, enhance their overall experience, and ensure their information remains secure. As the volume, variety, and velocity of data continues to grow, our data-driven culture enables smart decision-making, hyper-personalisation for our customers, and faster innovation across the bank to deliver outstanding customer outcomes. We’re excited by the opportunities ahead—by innovating, investing in our people, equipping them with the tools and insights they need, and simplifying our processes, we will continue to deliver exceptional support to our customers and the communities we serve.

ABOUT HSBC

HSBC is one of the world’s largest and most recognised banking and financial services organisations. Serving around 42 million customers across 58 territories – from individual savers to major corporations and governments – our institution combines a heritage dating back to 1865 with a forward-thinking mindset. As a recognised leader in banking, wealth management, and investment services, we have one of the broadest and deepest data sets in the financial services industry. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, diversity, and digital transformation, we continuously adapt to the evolving financial and technological landscape – empowering individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive in a connected world. Whether navigating international trade or supporting local communities, HSBC remains a trusted partner in shaping financial futures. Find out more at www.HSBC.com and follow HSBC on LinkedIn.

About Carly

As a Managing Director heading up Data, Analytics and AI for Asia and Middle East, I lead a team of passionate and enthusiastic data professionals. Since joining HSBC, I’ve embraced opportunities for growth, holding roles in operations, Technology, Risk, Transformation and COO, across 3 global locations – from Australia, travelling to London – currently residing in Hong Kong.  I am an advocate for inclusion, and founded HSBC Women in Data, Analytics and AI in 2023, to break down silos across the Bank, support the growing capability that is Data and Analytics and bring communities together.

Where did you start your career:

In HSBC’s Australian call centre, answering the phones was my first role, then i put my hand up for all the roles in the call centre. I took on a training role, a system implementation role finally landing in MI and Reporting before moving into technology working on a HSBC Universal Banking system upgrade.

What do you enjoy the most about working in data at HSBC:

I am passionate about data, it has been the backbone of my 20+ career – being able to support the business on their strategy, the amazing talented people I get to meet and work with and that no two days are the same!

What are some tips for anyone pursuing a career in the field of data?

Don’t put limits on yourself, ask lots of questions and recognise that your skills in a current role are transferrable. There are many roles in Data; from technical roles in data science to business analysis, and stakeholder engagement we need lots of varied skills and people with different experience. Being curious, saying yes to project opportunities, and investing in yourself with continual learning are key to opening doors in the world of Data.

Personal Interests:

Being out in the garden growing things or baking and then watching people get joy from the creations.

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – A teacher, then Policewoman – not sure what happened!

Dream travel destination – Anywhere I can hear the ocean.

Hidden talent or superpower – Smelling good coffee from a mile away!

Quote or mantra you live by – Never hurts to ask, the worst they can say is no.

One goal you still hope to achieve – Certified diver.

Book, podcast or App recommendation – My go-to is Blinkist – an app that helps you read smarter by providing concise summaries so you can quickly grasp key ideas and decide if you want to dive deeper.

Follow Carly on LinkedIn

About Anusuya         

As the Lead Assistant Vice President of Digital Banking Service Analytics in the Data and Analytics Office, I solve complex business problems with the customer always in mind. I build data science solutions and generate insights for seamless business executions through Traditional AI (ML, Deep Learning), Generative AI, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision. I’m an advocate of continuous learning, having completed my doctorate, and over my 17 professional years, I have regularly upskilled and gained diverse expertise in data science, advanced analytics, research, innovation, and software development. Throughout my career, I have received industry awards such as Top 40 Under 40 Data Scientist in India, AI Change Maker, and Visionary AI Leader. I also enjoy speaking on AI/ML at international AI conferences, engaging with academic peers, and particularly dedicating time to young talent to steer them towards future-ready skills.

Where did you start your career:

As a software engineer, responsible for building analytical and reporting solutions in the aerospace domain. Drawn to the Data and AI revolution, I pursued a Doctorate in Data Science, conducting research on the effective application of AI methods in the financial sector before joining HSBC, where I focused on driving advanced analytics and implementing data science solutions in collaboration with business units across markets and products in Digital Banking Services.

What do you enjoy the most about working in data at HSBC:

HSBC’s culture of valuing talent, nurturing career aspirations, providing platforms for continuous development and the opportunity to implement new age solutions with the collaboration of Operation, Transformation, Technology, Innovation.

What are some tips for anyone pursuing a career in the field of data?

Understand the opportunities, define the carrier aspiration, cultivating and mandating a habit of self-education in our day-to-day busy work schedules and consistently work towards to achieve our desire

Personal Interests:

Listening to pop rock, science fiction movies, and spending time with my family

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – Doctor of Medicine but became Doctor of Philosophy!

Dream travel destination – Wonders of the world.

Hidden talent or superpower – Cooking South Indian vegan food.

Quote or mantra you live by – Consistency looks like not happening until everything changes.

One goal you still hope to achieve – Driving to a long-distance destination on my own.

Book, podcast or App recommendation – Deeplearning.ai, cloudskillboost, Andrew Ng courses on Coursera.

Follow Anusuya on LinkedIn

About Sofia:

In my current role as Head of AI Enablement for the Corporate and Institutional Bank (CIB), I am globally responsible for the flagship AI products within the bank and the deployment of these capabilities across critical commercial journeys at HSBC. I lead a team focused on scaling and commercialising AI capabilities to deliver meaningful returns to the CIB business globally and support CIB’s ambition to provide simpler and better experiences for colleagues and customers. With a deep understanding of the regulatory, legal, and compliance implications of AI and Generative AI, I am dedicated to ensuring that AI in all forms is delivered responsibly and safely.

Where did you start your career:

As a graduate at EY, one of the Big Four consulting firms specializing in financial services, I developed a keen interest in data and emerging technologies, which led me to carve out a career path in this field

What do you enjoy the most about working in data at HSBC:

The variety of the skills, knowledge and experience of the people I work with. No one day is the same, and there is so much to learn from the vast experiences around you.

What are some tips for anyone pursuing a career in the field of data?

The squiggle line – no career is the same and coming from a different background or having a different skill set is a strength. Stay curious, immerse yourself in knowledge, and constantly challenge yourself to learn. The pace of change, especially in AI, is unparalleled; therefore, adaptability and curiosity are key qualities to possess.

Personal Interests:

I regenerate by being outdoors – hiking, sailing, horse riding or just sitting in the park with a good book.

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – Marine Biologist

Dream travel destination – Too many to still explore – New Zealand, Patagonia and Vietnam are top of the list!

Hidden talent or superpower – Translating complexity into something simple

Quote or mantra you live by – Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.

One goal you still hope to achieve – Live up to my Italian heritage and really learn how to cook

Book, podcast or App recommendation – As I love to read both fiction and non-fiction, a great Data related read is ‘Invisible Women’ by Caroline Criado Perez, and fiction (not work related), ‘Midnight Library’ by Matt Haig.

Follow Sofia on LinkedIn

About Nicola:

As Manging Director Head of Design and Delivery, HSBC UK Bank PLC, I have 2 obsessions which I’m lucky enough to call my job:

  1. To create engaging customer experiences, communications, and interactions by designing deeply personalised content using customer- centric principles, analytics, behavioural science and insights across all channel touchpoints. Our insights drive business design, decisions and optimisation across customer journeys, propositions, products and pricing.
  2. To nurture talent and foster an environment where people can continually grow and develop and be the best versions of themselves, they can be.

Where did you start your career:

I started off in Biomedicine and medical research science, which is what I was trained to do – but very quickly was drawn to the data and analytical side of research.  My first analytics job in HSBC was as a fraud analyst to bring in analytical techniques to help protect our customers from credit card fraud.  My whole life and career have revolved around data, analytics, statistics – having a mathematician as a dad probably had an influence!

What do you enjoy the most about working in data at HSBC:

It’s such a massive community, I have changed jobs or role scope almost every 2 years, have an opportunity to work and live internationally.  I work with world class professionals in a community where we improve and grow together.

What are some tips for anyone pursuing a career in the field of data?

Keep learning and never assume you know it all, it’s constantly changing, protect time to learn and stay curious.  The world of data, analytics, CRM, AI, Agentic AI is changing rapidly – in the words of Stephen Covey – keen sharpening the saw! 

Personal Interests:

Most weekends, you will find me out exploring out and about in my campervan in a muddy field, cooking outside next to a firepit somewhere!  I also have a coaching business to help guide women through times of change with insight, clarity, and purposeful action.

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – Astronaut

Dream travel destination – Anywhere I can open my campervan door in the morning and be right there in nature, even better when there is a sea view!

Hidden talent or superpower – Positivity is my superpower which is helpful in staying resilient and adapting to change.

Quote or mantra you live by – Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement; nothing can be done without hope.  We are never happy until we try to brighten the lives of others.  Helen Keller.

One goal you still hope to achieve – To own or steward a little woodland and learn about forest management and the important ecosystems that flourish together.

Book, podcast or App recommendation – I’ve just finished reading the salt path by Raynor Winn which was a lovely read.  I quite like the podcasts ZOE Science and Nutrition and Feel Better, Live More by Dr Chatterjee. 

Follow Nicola on LinkedIn

About Jenny:

As Head of AI platforms, I’m leading a team of passionate and talented engineers and AI experts in the delivery of AI platforms and common capabilities to enable AI deployment at scale across the bank. I enjoy learning emerging technologies, exploring how they can be leveraged to solve real problems, and productionising them to bring tangible value.

Where did you start your career:

I started my career as a C/C++ Software Engineer. After joining HSBC in 2012, my passion for innovation and AI provided me with great opportunities to deliver solutions that automate back-office processes using AI. Gradually, I expanded my role in AI into wider areas.

What do you enjoy the most about working in data at HSBC:

Waking up every day to collaborate with talented colleagues at HSBC – striving to bring tangible business value through innovative AI solutions.

What are some tips for anyone pursuing a career in the field of data?

Don’t set limits on yourself and be open to opportunities.

Personal Interests:

Travelling with my family to explore different places and cultures.

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – Teacher.

Dream travel destination – Places with stunning natural landscapes.

Hidden talent or superpower – Enter ‘flow state’ quickly.

Quote or mantra you live by – Get a little bit better every single day.

One goal you still hope to achieve – Travel around the world.

Book, podcast or App recommendation – Recommend book ‘Peak: Secrets from the new science of expertise’ which provides techniques for developing mastery of skills by deliberate practice.

Follow Jenny on LinkedIn

About Elif:

I currently lead the Data, Analytics, and AI division for HSBC Life globally. Prior to this role, I held various country and regional leadership positions across different locations and business areas within the field of Data, Analytics, and AI. I lead a diverse team of data analysts and scientists across three continents. Growing up in a small city in Turkey, in a family of educators, instilled in me a love for continuous learning and teaching. My upbringing in a close-knit community taught me the value of empathy and kindness, while my international career has shown me the power and beauty of diversity. These values have been my guiding light both personally and professionally. I strive to create a positive impact at HSBC and for the people I work with.

Career Start:

I began my banking career in 2007 at Citibank Turkey, where I was responsible for reporting sales figures and financials. My curiosity about the underlying reasons for financial outcomes sparked my interest in the field of data and analytics. This curiosity has been a driving force throughout my career, leading me to roles that both challenge and inspire me.

Enjoyment in Data at HSBC:

At HSBC, the opportunity to create new solutions and explore innovative opportunities across different business areas fuels my passion. I feel a deep sense of fulfilment knowing that my work adds value and continuously feeds my curiosity.

Tips for Pursuing a Career in Data:

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of continuous learning and being proactive in understanding business problems. By keeping the customer at the forefront and leveraging data and analytics, we can drive meaningful solutions and make a significant impact

Personal Interests:

Exploring new cultures and countries has been a significant part of my international career, taking me from Turkey to Singapore, Jersey, and now Hong Kong. This journey has not only enriched my life but also provided my family with a broader perspective on the world.

Rapid Fire:

Dream job as a child – A Doctor who can find a cure to multiple diseases.

Dream travel destination – Where blue and green meets each other.

Hidden talent or superpower – Ability to adapt and thrive in new environments.

Quote or mantra you live by – Follow your heart and stay true to your values.

One goal you still hope to achieve – Giving lectures at a university.

Book, podcast, or app recommendation – I consume anything about AI on Spotify.

Follow Elif on LinkedIn