The banking and financial services industry in Namibia has seen more women taking up leadership positions. In a society where we would like to send a strong message to women and girls that they have equal opportunity, it is gratifying when women such as Trula Zoganas are leading in banking and more specifically Private Banking.
“Women in banking can succeed,” says Trula Zoganas, who is at the helm of the team at Nedbank Namibia’s Private Banking. Trula who holds 29 years experience in the banking sector is no newcomer to the banking world; her experience and vast expertise make her a knowledgeable mentor to future leaders in the industry.
In 2017, Trula was honoured to be one of the finalists of the prestigious Namibian Businesswoman of the year, an accomplishment in its own right. She holds an Honours Degree in Business Administration, Banking and Finance, and her colleagues and team know too well of her many outstanding performance accolades received in the span of her career.
As Head of Private Banking, her approach to developing Private Banking means being cognisant of the long-term vision and plans of clients. With her team, she is working on cultivating the client base and providing stellar service in the process. One of her key focus drives includes not only the provision of outstanding service but also effectively managing her team, which will enable an environment conducive to achieving this. Her leadership style drives excellence by building trust through communication and development. “I try and instil a culture of delivering distinct service not only to our clients, but also our colleagues, it has a ripple effect and it is something that truly resonates with me,” says Trula.
Having completed the Management Development Programme through the University of Stellenbosch, Trula believes in continuous learning for her team. “With ongoing development and training of my team, I believe we can not only reach our targets but provide our clients with unmatched service level in Namibia,” says Trula.
Her larger than life approach is to make a difference in people’s lives, enabling them to really ‘see money differently’ the new Nedbank slogan which Trula pursues in every aspect of her work and interaction with people.
An empowered woman in banking who demonstrates that it is possible for women to lead and make a positive impact not only for the organisation they work for, but the community they come from and live in. As much as Trula’s work ethic and steadfastness inspires her team, she is personally inspired by people who succeed against the odds, “their fighting spirit and perseverance to reach success despite the challenges, really inspires me,” says Trula. Her biggest inspiration is her father, who modelled an exemplary attitude and work ethos, something which remains very relevant to her and has carried her through her career.
As more and more women take up the reigns in leadership, and create successful careers in banking, the industry is evolving and becoming more dynamic and in tune to the needs of clients. For Trula, women in banking are the future and she encourages those who wish to follow suite to take her advice, and not give up. “I do not give up on my dreams and goals, determination has brought me where I am today,” says Trula. With Trula and her team spearheading Private Banking, clients can rest assured that they are well taken care of.