Julie Baker Old

Julie Baker is Head of Enterprise and Community Finance at NatWest, with a 30+ year career in the world of banking in both business and commercial, covering leadership roles. Julie was ‘Highly Commended’ at last year’s Women in Finance awards for the program she leads at NatWest supporting female entrepreneurs. This year she is a member of the WIBF Awards for Achievement judging panel.

You were a finalist for our Champion for Women Award last year, how did that impact on you professionally?

Being shortlisted for the ‘Champion for Women award 2018 was a privilege as it opened up a new and valuable network of inspiring women from across the Finance Sector. This resulted in receiving many invitations and introductions enabling me to not only enhance my own profile, but share my valuable new contacts with my own colleagues/mentees and eco system.

What will you be looking for when you judge the shortlist?

What I will be looking for this year is an inspiring candidate who can evidence determination and resilience and is passionate about supporting others.

Do you think there will be a time where gendered awards aren’t necessary?

I do believe that one day there will be a time when gender specific awards are no longer required, but not for many years – perhaps a generation.

Who are your female heroes who have inspired you in your career?

Many females have inspired me in my career from my mother who taught me the importance of independence from an early age, to the many entrepreneurs who make their dreams reality like Chrissie Rucker, Kath Kidston and Jo Malone to those succeeding in big corporate roles like Alison Rose Deputy CEO NatWest, all instilling belief in others and the next generation.

What piece of advice would you give to a young woman just starting out on her career journey?

The advice I give to young women starting their career today, including my daughter is be adaptable, enjoy what you do, challenge yourself to be daring, different but stay authentic to yourself.”