Mary O'Connor's background is anything but traditional. She started her career as a lawyer, working as a prosecutor and then transitioning to the UK legal landscape. Her experience in the public sector and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments ultimately led her to KPMG, where she was tasked with addressing the firm's governance, controls, and cultural challenges.

Key insights from the interview include:

- The importance of building trust and psychological safety to get the best out of teams, even when you're an outsider coming into an organisation.

- Navigating the challenges of being a visible minority or non-traditional candidate in a traditionally homogeneous industry.

- The pros and cons of using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and the need for boards to be more thoughtful about when they are used.

- Advice for aspiring leaders on being brave, aiming high, and creating more opportunities for themselves.

This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, organisational transformation, inclusion, and the evolving landscape of the corporate world. Mary's insights and experiences offer a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern business and driving positive change.

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