International Women's Day Interview with Weng Yee Ng

Congratulations on your promotion to partner earlier this year! How did you achieve this level of success, especially given our industry's gender gap at the leadership level?

For me to achieve a partner role in an industry predominantly composed of men, I had to come to the table with no false pretense. But to even get to the table, I've put in an immense amount of hard work, perseverance, and had a lot of support from everyone around me.

Were there any "make or break" moments in your career?

The most make-or-break moment in my career would likely be when I decided to join FRA. It was a pivotal point in my career (coming from a non-forensic accounting background) and I am grateful to Frances and Yousr, two of my interviewers, who saw my potential and decided to give me the opportunity to excel.

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career?

My confidence has grown through observation. I am surrounded by wonderful and high-caliber individuals who I continuously watch, learn from, and seek their guidance. Above all else, I feel empowered knowing that I am who I am and others cannot define who I should be.

Describe your leadership style.

My leadership style is nurturing without being intrusive. I want to foster and advocate growth but never to the point that I'm taking their voice away.

What is your approach to mentoring others?

I try to take a "coach" mentality and I guide mentees through their careers and life in general, and most importantly, I prioritize being supportive. I do not mean just verbally; I take it very seriously that when I say I will support someone, I take the necessary actions. For example, letting them shadow me, introducing them to my network, showing them how to navigate a difficult situation, directing them to where the opportunities lie, and - to the extent I am able - open that door for them.

What are the most important things to progressing in this business?

To progress in this business, you have to truly believe in yourself, in the cause, and in your actions; be passionate! On top of that, be resilient. Rome was not built in a day, but guess what? It was built!

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

To the next generation of female leaders: be brave and persevere. There is no goal too big, and nothing is beyond you if you are committed to it.

How can we #BreaktheBias?

Speak up; when you see gender bias happening around you, be the one to call it out. And, to those who receive such feedback, don't ignore it. Stop, reflect and remedy.

Just for fun, what is the most interesting place you've visited while on business travel?

The most interesting place I've visited would definitely be the Philippines, with Rik Workman and Carmen Leal. The local food and people were great, but it was also a fantastic city to explore (despite it being typhoon season when we were there). My biggest achievement during the trip (outside of work) was successfully persuading Rik to wake up at the crack of dawn to go sightseeing with us over the weekend, amidst typhoons and monsoon rain.