Chief Executive Women (CEW) today announced National Australia Bank’s (NAB) Victoria Jones-Nguyen is the winner of a scholarship to participate in the AGSM Women in Leadership Program at the UNSW Business School.

Offered in partnership with the AGSM @ UNSW Business School, the scholarship is part of the CEW Scholars program, which helps talented Australian women take their careers to the next level. This scholarship is offered to a woman working on a part time or flexible basis.

In announcing the winner, Belinda Gibson, Chairman CEW Scholarships Committee said: “CEW has an extensive program of scholarships for future leaders. Our experience is that the leadership courses and study programs quickly provide CEW Scholars with greater capability, credibility and confidence”.

“At AGSM we prepare leaders for the great unknown,” said AGSM Director, Professor Julie Cogin. “A key aspect of that commitment is enabling women to access leadership development, so we are proud to partner with the CEW Scholarships initiative. The Women In Leadership Program empowers women returning to the workforce or preparing for their next challenge. With an emphasis on authentic style and adaptive thought leadership, it can revitalise and refocus career trajectories.”

Victoria Jones-Nguyen is Head of Business Initiatives within the Business Lending portfolio (Products and Markets) at NAB. Alongside her team, she provides consulting and project delivery support across a portfolio of strategic initiatives within the bank.

Victoria, who has just returned to work on a flexible working arrangement after her second child, says challenges remain for part time managers in senior roles (specifically women).

“Perception is paramount when working flexibly, particularly in very senior roles where it may be remarked that you are not working as hard or you aren’t visible enough. Changing perceptions and the culture around balancing a demanding role in flexible working conditions can be difficult.

Victoria adds: “It’s also about creating a workplace culture where everyone feels confident, valued and able to contribute. At NAB, this spirit of diversity and inclusion is more than just an idea or a goal. It’s a huge part of who we are and I am very proud to work for this organization.”

The scholarship will enable Victoria to participate in the AGSM Women in Leadership Program at the UNSW Business School.

The Women in Leadership Program attracts a dynamic group of business women from a variety of industries and sectors including private, not-for-profit and government. The four-month transformational program focuses on growing leadership skills to help participants achieve positive outcomes for themselves and their organisation.

The scholarship is part of the CEW Scholars program, which is providing $500,000 over 18 months to help talented Australian women take their careers to the next level.