Influential Women in Hamilton: Yvette Pierre
True leadership is about integrity, consistency and walking your talk, says Yvette Pierre of the BMA.
Yvette Pierre, managing director – policy, strategy and international affairs at the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA), has more than 25 years of experience in financial services, beginning as a property and casualty underwriter in Trinidad and Tobago before transitioning to life and health insurance.
Her career started in underwriting in both P&C and life & health business before expanding into regulatory roles with the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission and later the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, applying her knowledge and expertise in financial services to regulation.
In 2007, she joined the Bermuda Monetary Authority (Authority or BMA) amid the global financial crisis, quickly engaging in risk assessment and policy development, including playing a key role in Bermuda's Solvency II equivalence initiative. After a brief hiatus, she returned to the organisation to direct its focus on completing the Solvency II equivalence and NAIC Qualified Jurisdiction initiatives. Apart from her leadership role in the BMA’s regulatory policy development, her remit expanded into international affairs and strategic initiatives.
Pierre values the dynamic nature of her role and thrives in the high-stakes environment of the BMA, contributing to Bermuda's pivotal role in global financial services.
Why is the BMA a great place to work?
The BMA is an incredible place to work thanks to its dynamic and fast-paced environment. I find real fulfilment in navigating the demands of the role — it calls for resilience under pressure. Over time, I have come to realise that I thrive in such challenging environments. I approach every challenge as a learning opportunity, continually seeking ways for us to improve, evolve as an organisation and grow as professionals. This commitment to growth mindset is what makes the BMA both energising and rewarding.
Has anyone inspired you or acted as a mentor in your career?
Yes, early in my career, I was fortunate to have Eleen Lum as a manager while I was a management trainee in underwriting. Eleen was an incredible mentor; a tiny, unassuming individual, yet she carried immense strength and grace. In those days when “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) was not popular, as a female leader in a male-dominated profession, Eleen’s drive for excellence, her knowledge and expertise and her leadership style were compelling factors that caused her to “have a seat at the table”.
She consistently demonstrated professionalism, putting people first and standing firm on her principles, even under immense pressure. Watching Eleen handle challenges with poise and unwavering commitment was inspiring. She showed me that true leadership is about integrity, consistency and walking your talk. It also showed me that true leadership comes at a cost, and I am not sure what kind of leader I would have become without her influence and example.
What are your own ambitions and greatest achievements to date?
My greatest achievement is my personal growth and resilience. Throughout my career, I have faced numerous challenges, and each one taught me valuable lessons. Learning from mistakes, embracing failure and finding opportunities even in adversity have shaped who I am today.
It is easy to grow during good times, but how we react to failure truly defines us. I have learned to forgive myself, learn from setbacks and continually strive to be a better version of myself.
Has the BMA made progress in terms of diversity and inclusion since you joined?
Even before the term “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) became widely recognised, the BMA inherently embraced these principles. Our work requires collaboration among diverse teams, and this respect for varied skills and perspectives is essential to our success.
Over the years, the BMA has taken deliberate steps to formalise its DEI initiatives. We have developed a DEI statement, provided training and infused these principles into every aspect of the organisation, from performance management to hiring practices. It is not just about ticking boxes; DEI is deeply embedded in our culture and contributes significantly to our strategic advantage.
Would you say the BMA is especially attuned to diversity and inclusion?
Absolutely yes. Diversity is not just a buzzword at the BMA; it is a strategic differentiator. The creativity and innovation that stem from a diverse and inclusive environment have been key to our success. Having worked in various organisations, I can confidently say the BMA’s DEI efforts set it apart and provide a significant competitive edge through understanding and leveraging the value of diversity in every facet of our operations.
“I have learned to forgive myself, learn from setbacks and continually strive to be a better version of myself.”
Have you encountered challenges in your career?
I have navigated challenges influenced by gender, age, nationality and faith. As a biracial woman establishing a career in financial services, I experienced instances, particularly earlier in my career. Although the experiences were difficult, they taught me the importance of holding firm to my self-worth. Rather than letting others define my value, I have focused on finding growth in adversity— using each moment as an opportunity to learn, evolve, and strengthen both personally and professionally.
Would you encourage other women to join the BMA?
Without a doubt. The BMA does not just talk about DEI; we live it. Women in this environment are seen as professionals first, not just through the narrow lens of gender or nationality. I would wholeheartedly encourage women to join because they will find an inclusive, supportive workplace that values their contributions and fosters professional growth.
Any final thoughts about Bermuda?
Bermuda is an exciting place to be, especially if you’re looking to innovate and grow. It offers an environment where you can truly test and expand your capabilities, filled with opportunities for those ready to rise to the challenge.
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