IRI VISION: ENERGIZING WOMEN LEADERS

Melissa Kivett
Member, IRI Board of Directors and Executive Committee
Managing Director, Head of Enterprise Strategic Relationship Management
Prudential Financial
And her grandmother! (left)

When you see a strong woman, there’s often another standing behind her. For me, that was my grandmother. I watched in awe from the sidelines as she held what was traditionally a “man’s job” in risk management at a hospital. Working summers at the hospital, I was amazed at her confidence; she had no problem telling others what she wanted from her career and proceeded to break down barriers to get it. As a 13-year-old, her actions felt brazen, but now I realize she was just standing up for herself as the only woman in the room.

I credit her for laying the foundation for my passion and commitment to support the advancement of more women Chiefs. I was proud to help kick off IRI’s first DEI initiative and support IRI’s Women in Leadership initiatives. IRI recognizes that gender inequality has a significant impact on the economy and society. From economic growth to health and well-being, gender equality plays a critical role in promoting progress and stability. Together we can champion women and focus on energizing women to climb ladders, shatter ceilings, and find allies to support the advancement of women in our business.

At their annual conference, IRI just held its 2nd Women in Leadership Symposium, where panelists tackled important topics like working across generations, male allyship, and others. They shared three things we can all do to help advance equality.

• Lead with empathy (even though it may feel uncomfortable at first, it can be your superpower) 
• Men should be part of the conversation about equality. Men are important allies.
• Be comfortable with the uncomfortable 

We all have to do our part to advance equality – so lean in, be involved, and get ready for that uncomfortable feeling called progress!

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