Diversity & Inclusion with Camille McDermott
Camille, part of our Risk Advisory team, shares her thoughts on diversity & inclusion, as well as her story.
What does inclusion mean to you?
Feeling that I am welcomed and valued just as I am and that I am heard, respected and understood.
What challenges did you experience, if any, in your career and how did you overcome them?
In my first job after uni I experienced sexism from one person I reported to (not Deloitte!). I didn’t know how to handle it or how to communicate it and I felt so unhappy with it that I just ended up leaving the firm. In the sector and firm, I was in the tone at the top seemed to reinforce the attitude. I am confident that things have changed (this was 26 years ago!) and that in Deloitte we have a very clear tone at the top that sets out our shared values. I also feel that the more we talk about inclusion and our experiences, the more people will feel able to speak up if they experience something that they feel isn’t right.
What could others learn from your journey?
In my case, the move away from the firm worked out great as I moved abroad to work and was then recruited back by the firm (but working for different people who were excellent). But the main learning is that you should always report if you’re experiencing non-inclusive behaviour.
How is Deloitte helping you build your career?
We often talk about it not being enough to survive at work, but we want to thrive. I feel that I am thriving! Deloitte and the people across my team and service line leadership have supported me by encouraging me to achieve and providing opportunities to get involved in many different things – such as being a member of the Inclusion Council.
Deloitte also supported me immensely when I experienced a period of mental ill-health. That support meant I was able to return well and really grow in my career since.
As women, we are often brought up to 'be nice and keep the peace', which can mean that we’re not good at speaking up or sharing what we really think, particularly in group meetings or teams. Recognise that your opinions and thoughts matter as much as anyone else and ensures that you also give time to others.
Do you have any mentors and if so, what is their value to you?
Yes! I always encourage others to seek out mentors. Since joining Deloitte I’ve always asked to put the time in with other people in my service line who could give me advice and support in my career. Everyone has always said yes and given me their time – from Partners to Directors to Senior Managers.
I also took the opportunity to apply for a mentoring programme through Deloitte where I was matched with a senior mentor from the US in a firm and work outside of my own. This has been so helpful and my mentor and I got along so well that we have maintained contact since the programme ended and catch up every couple of months.
What is the most valuable thing you have learned since you joined Deloitte?
That I may not feel 100% prepared for every new role, but those who encouraged and supported me to go for it wouldn’t have done so if they didn’t think I could do it – and therefore I can do it!
What’s one piece of advice you would give to a young female starting off their career?
As women, we are often brought up to ‘be nice and keep the peace', which can mean that we’re not good at speaking up or sharing what we really think, particularly in group meetings or teams. Recognise that your opinions and thoughts matter as much as anyone else and ensures that you also give time to others.
What’s one piece of advice you would give a new parent/ caregiver trying to juggle their new life and career?
Just know that you are doing the best you can and that that is good enough. I felt over the years that I needed to be the best at being a mum and in my work and there were times when I felt that I wasn’t succeeding in either! Now my girls are older (15 and 18) I realise that they don’t remember any of the times I thought I wasn’t being Supermum. There can be tough times when you’re a parent or when trying to juggle work and home, but always reach out to someone – whether that’s another parent, your coach or family support through EAP, it’s really valuable just being able to share your thoughts and feelings.
And remember again – you are doing your best and your best is good enough!
What do you see as the role of an ally/ what do you value most?
For me, the role of an ally has been someone who will be a cheerleader for me and support me. Having someone to be alongside you when things are going well and not so well makes so much difference. If you’re an ally, you might not realise the impact that you have but know that it matters!
