Just days after being named Deputy CEO of the Bermuda Monetary Authority, Shanna Lespere has been welcomed as the Island's seventh Chartered Director, having earned the prestigious designation earlier this year.

The Institute of Directors Bermuda pointed out that a Chartered Directorship is the third and highest designation offered through the IoD's professional development programme.

For Mrs Lespere, the IoD said, it is the culmination of a two-year process, including pandemic-related delays, that saw her achieve both her certificate and diploma in company direction before submitting for the Chartered Directorship.

As a member of boards in both Bermuda and overseas, she says it was important for her to continue developing her skills and knowledge base.

"I believe that continuing education is important and necessary at whatever stage of your career you find yourself," she says.

"For me, volunteering is a way to give back to my community and the world. I am grateful for all of my blessings, so I feel that I should 'pay it forward' in return. I can also apply the knowledge gained during the CDir process to my current professional role."

Describing the process, Mrs Lespere says the training is modular and led by experienced directors and focused on key professional competencies.

She also highlighted the advantages of having a locally based branch of the IoD, both for networking and educational opportunities tailored to the Bermuda market.

"The local branch supports its membership, encourages entrepreneurial activity, and promotes responsible business practices, and it is these higher standards benefiting the wider community," she says.

Mrs Lespere acknowledged the support of the CPA Atlantic School of Business, where she is past-chair.

She served on the board for several years, and has spent nearly ten years as chief operating officer at the Bermuda Monetary Authority, before being promoted to deputy CEO.

She is also vice-chair of CPA Bermuda and the board of governors for Acadia University.

She acknowledges the importance of taking a leadership role in the modern boardroom's evolving demographics.

She said: "At the end of the day, as a female, I relish the opportunity to have a seat at the table and contribute in whatever capacity is required."

"Moreover, as the world focuses on diversity, equality and inclusion, I would like to help drive that initiative as it plays an important role in employee retention, innovation, and a synergy to meet an organisation's goals and objectives."