As an independent director at various banks and other financial sector institutions, Sarah Khabirpour is an expert in financial sector regulation. In the past, she worked as first government advisor at the finance ministry from 2009 to 2014, and then as Bil’s head of strategy, regulatory affairs and MarCom. From 2017 to 2020, she was the CCO of Banque de Luxembourg. She has been an independent director since 2021.

Khabirpour also sits on the boards of ICBC, Mirabaud, eBay, Sedco, Advent International and Fimalac.

Paperjam: What are the main challenges you have faced as an independent female director?

Sarah Khabirpour: Above all, I encounter a lot of opportunities.

How do you deal with any resistance or scepticism towards you?

As part of a maturity process.

Do you think gender equality is progressing on boards of directors?

It is progressing but it could progress faster.

What do you think about quotas for women on boards?

As a measure that advances essential progress, they can be useful.

As a female director, do you feel a particular responsibility to champion issues of parity and inclusion?

It’s a shared responsibility between men and women.

What solutions or policies do you think could encourage greater parity?

A real change in culture.

Any moments in your career that illustrate the reality of being a woman in this role?

The experiences are often more about the subtleties, the unspoken, the atmospheres--you have to remain resilient, smiling and determined.

What practical advice would you give to a young woman who wants to take her place in society?

Be authentic.

This article was originally published in French.