In an industry where resilience and precision are key, she has carved out a space for herself through ambition, intellect, and an unwavering drive. A champion of excellence, Monika continues to inspire as she breaks barriers and redefines leadership in the corporate world.

What do you do, and what do you love most about it?
I work in Executive & Regulatory Compensation at Goldman Sachs, focusing on structuring remuneration strategies within regulatory frameworks. What I love most about my role is its complexity—it’s a fascinating blend of finance, law, and strategy that constantly challenges me to think critically and analytically.

What inspired you to pursue this career?
I have always loved working with numbers and solving complex problems. Interestingly, I initially wanted to become a lawyer, but along the way, I discovered the world of finance. The regulatory side of compensation provides a perfect mix of analytical thinking and legal principles, which is what ultimately drew me in.

What advice would you give to women looking to establish successful careers in the banking industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions—curiosity and a willingness to learn are key. Build a strong professional network and seek mentors who can provide guidance and support.

What’s the best professional risk you’ve ever taken?
Accepting a job offer in New York at the start of the Covid lockdown was a huge leap of faith. For a year, I worked remotely from London for the NY office, adapting to different time zones and ways of working. When travel restrictions eased, my husband and I took another bold step—relocating to New York to work at the headquarters for an extended period. Both experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone, strengthened my adaptability, and ultimately shaped my career in ways I never expected.

⁠How do you approach confidence and self-expression in your work?
I’m naturally a control freak and a perfectionist, which helps me maintain high standards and articulate my ideas with confidence. I believe preparation is key—when I am well-informed and understand the details, I feel empowered to express my opinions and challenge the status quo. Confidence also comes from experience and learning to trust my own judgment over time.

Who is the woman that has inspired you the most, and why?
My best friend. She is incredibly independent, fearless, and unapologetically herself. Her honesty is refreshing—she always speaks her mind, even when the truth is uncomfortable. That kind of authenticity is something I deeply admire and strive to embody in my own life.

What does female empowerment mean to you?
To me, female empowerment is about having control over my own life and making choices that align with my personal and professional goals. It’s about gender equality, having the same opportunities as men, and being valued for my skills and contributions rather than my gender. It also means supporting and uplifting other women—creating an environment where we can all thrive.

⁠What’s your favourite or most worn AJOSEPO piece, and why?
The Demeter Silver Earrings are my absolute favourite—they are elegant yet bold. I’m also considering getting the matching ring to complete the set!