Eliza Livadiotou: Emboldened Women Business Leaders in 2022

Eliza Livadiotou
Chief Financial Officer, Bank of Cyprus

‘Through hard work we gain experience; it helps us discover many new things. This experience enables us to think smartly to solve a critical problem and achieve success. There is no shortcut to success. Hard work is the only key to achieving it; it teaches us discipline, dedication, and determination’

Under her current role of Chief Financial Officer, Bank of Cyprus, Eliza Livadiotou is responsible for Financial Control, Treasury, Strategy and Corporate Finance, Investor Relations and ESG, Regulatory Affairs, Sourcing, Procurement and Vendor Management, and Economic Research. In September 2020, she was awarded the CFO of the Year Award.

What is the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?
“Hard work and commitment. Through hard work we gain experience; it helps us discover many new things. This experience enables us to think smartly to solve a critical problem and achieve success. There is no shortcut to success. Hard work is the only key to achieving it; it teaches us discipline, dedication, and determination. I also believe that dedication and initiative always result in stronger relationships at work and better overall performance. Showing your commitment to success at work gains trust and respect from your peers. While necessary, these attributes are also the absolute minimum when it comes to ‘making it’ career-wise.”

As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?
“From my own experience, I cannot say that I see obstacles constraining a woman’s career advancement in the profession or industry. The difficulties which women do face are mostly of a practical nature at the stage when they start a family. I believe that the strong family and social ties in Cyprus provide the support system, which enables women to combine a demanding career with motherhood. Naturally, that goes for all women, regardless of profession. But when it comes to professional jobs that are demanding, you cannot make it unless your family is behind you. Having said that, I do believe that women have a natural gift for multitasking, and this enables them to balance family affairs and career progression effectively.”

What are some patterns you have noticed over the years about women at work, and things they could be doing better to advance their careers?
“How one behaves in the workplace can have a profound impact on their productivity, organisation, success and relationship with others. In general, women are hardworking individuals with the ability to maintain the work-life balance. Their dedication and commitment, together with good communication skills allows them to develop in their roles effectively, and have positive experiences at work, thus allowing them to progress further and climb the corporate ladder. It is important to have respect for your job, your workplace and those you work with, and to work on eliminating bad workplace habits.”

What advice could you give to the next generation of female leaders?
“Remove the thought that being female is either a handicap or a benefit. Stay positive. Never compare yourself to others. Demonstrate strength with grace and kindness.”