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A conversation with Jean Stephens
Chief Executive Officer, RSM
Jean Stephens is focused, determined and has a passion for working internationally, spending 70% of her time abroad. She is the first woman to lead a top 10 accountancy network and, as CEO of RSM International, the sixth largest accounting network in the world, her responsibilities include implementing strategies for the growth and development of the network of 120 member firms. Jean was named 32nd in the 2018 Accountancy Age Financial Power List.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2018, Jean shares with us her thoughts on this year’s theme, Press for Progress, including how she believes gender equality shapes success.
The theme for IWD 2018 is Press for Progress. What does this mean to you?
JMS: This year’s theme is spot on in terms of the work on equality not yet being finished. We are still a distance from real gender equality – and this does not serve anyone. Diversity and inclusion are critical elements to not only a healthy and positive society but they are also essential for businesses to be successful and to attract and retain the best talent.
How are you celebrating International Women’s Day?
JMS: I will be celebrating with all RSM members around the world to acknowledge the importance of our talented people – who bring the Power of Being Understood to our clients on a daily basis.
What message do you want to send to women at RSM and all the women around the world on this occasion?
JMS: We still have work to do with regard to equality in the work environment globally.
"It is only through all of our efforts that one day the issues currently faced by many will be in the past."
But we must, as the theme of this year’s celebrations indicate, press forward.
What is RSM doing to address gender inequality and diversity?
JMS: Many of our members have diversity and inclusion high on their agendas with regard to their firm policies.
"By living our values we will continue to ensure RSM around the world is the best place for our people to live, work and thrive."
What is the role of diversity in the workplace?
JMS: Embracing, encouraging and celebrating diversity is critical to successful companies.
"We must have a zero tolerance to any behaviours or attitudes that do not encourage diversity."
It is through our differences that we all learn and get stronger – and for our firms to get even more successful.
Can you tell me about a female role model who has inspired you over your career?
JMS: Clearly my greatest role model was my mother – while she was a mum first, in our house there was never any discussion about roles for boys or girls, men or women.
"We grew up knowing we had the ability and freedom to choose our own paths, whatever our choices."
Then once I was in our profession, I worked closely with many women leaders who lived by example by pushing forward in the areas that were of importance to them – all with the attitude that anything was possible.
What three skills do you think are essential to be a great leader?
JMS: Clarity of purpose, tenacity, ability to change.
Please tell us something people might not know about you. What matters to you?
JMS: Originally from California, I have lived in London now for 22 years, all of the time working with RSM. While my work takes me around the world, what is most rewarding is the opportunity this affords me to get to know great people from all RSM firms.
"Through our work together, I am blessed to learn about other cultures, approaches and values and this has changed and enriched my life immeasurable."
I am also blessed to be close to my family and to have wonderful friends – each of whom enrich my life beyond my working life – and remind me there is more to life than work.