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In the dynamic landscape of financial technology, leadership plays a crucial role in driving innovation, fostering inclusivity and creating a positive impact. Siobhan Noble, Managing Director of Product and Customer Success at Carne Group, embodies this new breed of leader. With nearly two decades of experience in the fintech and banking sectors, she is passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex business challenges while promoting an inclusive work environment.
Siobhan’s career path has been anything but linear. After graduating college, she began her career at Accenture, where she honed her skills in financial services and change management. This foundation was essential as she transitioned to the Bank of Ireland and later became part of the founding team and the Chief Operating Officer of Leveris, a fintech startup. “The experience of building something from the ground up was phenomenal,” she recalled, emphasising the electrifying atmosphere of the startup world. At Leveris, she was part of a team that grew from just a handful of people to over 250, navigating the complexities of banking technology.
However, the path was not without its challenges. In early 2021, Noble faced the difficult decision to wind down Leveris when a significant funding deal fell through. “Winding up the company was one of the most emotional experiences of my life,” she stated, reflecting on the personal investment and relationships she had cultivated over the years. This experience taught her invaluable lessons about resilience and leadership.
After the dissolution of Leveris, Siobhan transitioned to Carne Group, which optimises operations in funds and asset management. With more than 650 employees, the company is a tech-powered organisation focused on making a positive impact in the industry. Here, as Managing Director of Product and Customer Success, Siobhan helps steer product management, identifying valuable business problems that technology can solve. “In a tech-powered organisation like Carne, I have the chance to solve interesting problems,” she says.
It's essential for effective leadership that people can use their voice.
Siobhan is keenly aware of the broader implications of the asset management industry on society, particularly in addressing global challenges such as climate change. “The asset management world has a tremendous opportunity to shape sustainable practices and drive positive change,” she says.
By marrying strategic financial decisions with ethical considerations, Siobhan and her team at Carne are dedicated to making informed choices that benefit the environment and society at large. Her vision for the future encompasses both technological innovation and a commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that financial success and responsible corporate citizenship can go hand in hand.
Her role also involves fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and valued. “It’s essential for effective leadership that people can use their voice,” she says, listing integrity, trust and communication as key elements of her leadership style.
Pictured, left, Siobhan Noble and Ashling Cunningham as part of the IMAGE x PwC Women in Tech series.
An important theme for Siobhan is the need for structural changes within organisations to create truly inclusive workplaces, particularly for women in leadership roles. “We have made a lot of progress regarding representation on boards, but we still have a way to go with senior leadership teams,” she explains. She identifies a significant “hiccup” in the career trajectories of many women: a break that often disincentives their return to leadership roles.
“We need to ensure that organisations welcome women back after a career break,” she states firmly, advocating for a long-term vision that values and retains female talent. Siobhan believes that fostering a culture that embraces family responsibilities should be a priority for every organisation, allowing women to return to their careers without unnecessary penalties.
When asked about the essential qualities of effective leadership, Siobhan highlights integrity as the cornerstone. “Good relationships are built on trust, and you have to earn it.” Communication, accountability and kindness round out her list of critical leadership traits before she shares her belief that a sense of fun in the workplace is vital. “We spend a lot of time at work; it should be enjoyable,” she said, reflecting the belief that positivity can alleviate tension and create a more comfortable work environment. She also notes the importance of exploring opportunities and shares that her career also followed a few “diversions”, which included setting up her own high-end furniture business and travelling with a band in the US.
In a tech-powered organisation like Carne, I have the chance to solve interesting problems.
Siobhan’s comprehensive view of leadership extends beyond traditional norms, suggesting that leadership education must evolve. “While we learn about theory in our education systems, on-the-job experiences provide the most valuable lessons.” She urges aspiring leaders to seek out mentors and role models to learn from both successes and failures.
Throughout her career, she says she has benefited from the guidance of experienced leaders and aims to pay it forward. “I believe in the power of mentoring because it can shape the future of aspiring leaders.” She believes this commitment to developing future talent not only enhances individual careers but also promotes a healthier organisational culture that values growth and collaboration.
In today’s fast-paced technological environment, businesses are often eager to adopt the latest innovations without first addressing their core challenges. “Companies need to start with the problem before looking for a solution,” Siobhan advises, emphasising the importance of understanding specific business needs before diving into technology like AI or machine learning. She points out that many firms are still grappling with fragmented data and internal processes that impede their ability to innovate effectively.
Pictured, right, Ashling Cunningham, Anne Sheehan, Siobhan Noble, Kelly McKillen, Shreya Aggarwal and Adebola Olomo as part of the IMAGE x PwC Women in Tech series.
At Carne, Siobhan is involved in a major data programme designed to streamline information systems, promoting the belief that solid data foundations are prerequisites for successfully leveraging new technologies. “You have to do the groundwork before technology can deliver its promise.”
As Siobhan continues to navigate the landscape of fintech and leadership, her commitment to creating inclusive environments and leveraging technology responsibly is unwavering. With her vast experience, she is not just a leader but a mentor for those aiming to make meaningful contributions to the industry.
In her own words, Siobhan believes that the future is bright for the fintech sector, provided that companies maintain a focus on being a “force for good.”
This article originally appeared in the IMAGE Autumn 2024 issue.
The “Women in Tech” series, sponsored by PwC, spotlights seven inspiring leaders who have carved out remarkable and diverse careers, while contributing to the advancement of Ireland’s technology scene and empowering other women to excel in the sector.
Credits for this photoshoot include – Photography: Barry McCall, Stylist: Sarah Rickard, Hair: Eva Kyne, Make-up: John Bowe, and Video: Dan Dunne.
Styling credits: Ashling Cunningham wears Italian crepe dress, And Tate, €850 at Emporium Kalu. Anne Sheehan wears jacquard dress, Natan, €939 at Emporium Kalu; velvet courts, Ted Baker, €135.95 at zalando.ie. Siobhan Noble wears satin pleated dress, Amsale, €1,050 at Emporium Kalu; leather courts, €65 at Marks & Spencer. Kelly McKillen wears pinstripe waistcoat, €129; and trousers, €139; both Whistles at Brown Thomas; cream boots, Dwrs, €149.99 at styledby.ie. Shreya Aggarwal wears fit and flare dress, Weekend Max Mara, €325 at Brown Thomas; suede courts, €65 at Marks & Spencer. Adebola Olomo wears blouse, Avn, €339 at Emporium Kalu; tapered trousers, €120 at Marks & Spencer.
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