Sara Khaiami’s 17-year career in banking and finance now sees her leading ANZ’s learning and development team as its Head of Commercial Capability. But she has worn may hats during her time in the industry.
“I have spent many years with ANZ across a number of leadership roles, divisions and functions. I've had experience in retail, commercial and wholesale banking, as well as in risk and transformation,” she says.
Sara is the newest member of FINSIA’s diversity equity and inclusion council.
She is especially passionate about diversity in all its forms. She hopes to contribute to FINSIA in a variety of ways. “It’s a great opportunity to make a difference in the financial services industry," she says.
Sara, who also leads a women in leadership program for ANZ across New South Wales and the ACT, is has a special perspective on this topic, given she suffered a stroke three years ago.
“I'm very fortunate to have made a full recovery. But it highlights diversity comes in many forms. It's not just about gender, it includes disability and ethnicity as well and I am also the daughter of migrant parents. These are all reasons I’m passionate about diversity. I want to make an impact at a larger scale in the industry,” she says.
According to Sara, being part of FINSIA’s community is a privilege. “To be able to advocate on behalf of all diverse populations within financial services is an honour. This includes all the people with disabilities who continue to work, pursue careers and add value to customers and shareholders. For me, it's a great privilege to be able to make that difference.”
She’s excited to absorb all the thought leadership material FINSIA publishes. “I am looking forward to connecting with everyone on the council and board. This will help me develop more diversity of thought. Financial services is changing so much, being a member of FINSIA allows you to have a perspective on the future of financial services, particularly around gen AI, you might not otherwise have,” she says.
Sara is also a fan of FINSIA’s professional development offering. “There are many interesting micro courses the institute provides and other learning experiences that help members stay up to date. The breadth of learning experiences available is huge, which is invaluable when it comes to self-development and personal investment.”
Outside her professional life, Sara loves making candles as a hobby. “I also thoroughly enjoy music and the ocean is my happy place. I also love spending time with my family.”
