AWF Magazine - December 2023.pdf

AWF Women of Finance Giveaway: 1x1 Mentoring Session with AWF Executive Sponsor, Pascal Desroches

WINNER

Lead Financial Analyst Mass Markets, Sales & Distribution NEIL SHAH

1. What were your initial thoughts and expectations going into the mentoring session with Pascal? · Going into the mentoring session with Pascal, I was filled with a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, eagerness to learn, a touch of nervousness, and deep respect for Pascal’s journey to CFO. There was a complete sense of awe, realizing the opportunity to gain experience face-to-face from someone in such a pivotal leadership position within the company. These emotions fueled my readiness for what I hoped would be an enriching and valuable mentoring session. 2. Can you share one key learning point or insight you gained from your 1x1 session? · Pascal narrated numerous personal anecdotes regarding his professional journey, which resonated deeply with my current career sentiments. He shared that the key to accelerate career advancement is not about obsessing over a specific designation or role, but rather it is about truly excelling in your current position, fostering teamwork, ensuring the satisfaction of your collaborators, and receiving constructive criticism on your strengths and areas for improvement. He emphasized the concept that "the journey matters more than the destination" and truly doing a good job is the key that unlocks the treasure chest of successful career progression. 3. How has this experience impacted your perspective of AT&T as a company? · This experience has highlighted AT&T’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering learning opportunities. The fact that such a key figure took the time to mentor and impart wisdom significantly underscores AT&T’s ethos, culture, and its investment in employee development. The generosity of Pascal's time and the opportunity provided by the AWF organization has left an impression, and it is an experience for which I am truly thankful. As I navigate my personal and professional life, I will treasure this incredible experience as a guiding light.

“THE JOURNEY MATTERS MORE THAN THE DESTINATION”