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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.
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.
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.