I also have two daughters who need to know that women can inspire, deliver, overcome and win.

Ann Leepile is the managing director of Absa asset management and has managed, quite literally, to transform the entire team. Thanks to her deft touch, gentle leadership and forward-thinking approach, she has guided her team through turbulent times and into a brighter and more closely-knit future.

When asked what has inspired her along her journey, Leepile replies: “My parents and grandparents had to overcome many challenges to ensure I received an education. I can never lose sight of this, or my appreciation for how lucky I am to be in this position today as a result of their commitment.”

It is the many young women who look to people in her position that keep her inspired. She believes that their motivation to keep going and fight the odds spurs her own, especially in a market where the odds are definitely not in their favour.

“While our industries remain white and male dominated, women still have to demand their place and, unfortunately, there are not enough people demanding that the transformation discussions be held. The transformation of our industry must be done responsibly, yet unapologetically.”

The challenges women face are often best understood by other women and Leepile believes that this is where the conversations have to start: women recognising the need to change environments and stay the course.

“Don’t allow having children or needing greater flexibility make you think you need to exit early or take a back seat,” Leepile concludes. “Continue to hone your skill set, no matter what. This is a constantly changing world and you need to keep up with it. Lean in to as many support structures as you can — family, friends, mentors, your networks — all of them, and never apologise for being a woman.”

— Tamsin Oxford

Twitter: @aleepile