An Interview With A Barclays Inclusion Leader
Barclays is hiring on POCIT.
Deborah Barnwell is the inclusion and opportunity partner for UK corporate at Barclays. In this role, she focuses on fostering inclusion and ensuring that all colleagues, regardless of background, feel valued, empowered, and supported in their careers. She also collaborates closely with senior leaders to embed inclusive practices and drive meaningful change by championing initiatives that expand equitable opportunities across the organization.
A Journey Shaped By Inclusion
“My career journey has been one of continuous growth,” Barnwell says. “It’s been shaped by a commitment to inclusion and opportunity.”
“I began my career in other roles that really helped me firsthand to understand the importance of creating spaces where everyone can thrive,” she says. “As I progressed, I took on a lot of different responsibilities that allowed me to lead on inclusion strategies. It also allowed me to mentor and think about talent development, which ultimately led me to my current role, which is an inclusion and opportunity partner.”
Each step, Barnwell explains, reinforced her belief in driving systemic change to ensure equitable opportunities for all. “I’m proud to now be in a position where I get the opportunity to be able to influence that change at Barclays too,” she says.
Navigating Tech And Banking As A Person Of Color
“Navigating the corporate world as a person of color has had its challenges,” Barnwell admits. “However, I have also seen the growing commitment to inclusion and opportunity, especially within the banking industry.”
She’s encouraged by Barclays’ work to build structures that support career progression. “Barclays is taking tangible steps as well to ensure that our colleagues are not only here but given access to growth and success for themselves.”
Still, she knows the work is ongoing. “I think while work remains to be done across the sector, I have found that advocating for inclusion and building a strong network, which I have done personally myself, has been key to navigating my career and ensuring that more diverse voices are recognized and valued.”
The Power Of Being Seen And Supported
For Barnwell, meaningful support has come from several directions.
“Mentorship and sponsorship have been invaluable in my journey,” she says. “I also think that having leaders who actively advocate for inclusion and opportunity has really opened doors for me and provided guidance, which has made a significant difference throughout my career.”
Barclays is taking tangible steps as well to ensure that our colleagues are not only here but given access to growth and success for themselves.
“Additionally, I think having structured development programs and relevant leadership training, and platforms where colleagues can share experiences and drive change, has been instrumental in fostering equity and career progression.”
And then there’s the power of storytelling. “I will also always talk about storytelling being one of the biggest things anyone can do, especially if you know you’re a senior leader and you want to understand some of the challenges that some colleagues face,” she says. “Storytelling is always going to be the way forward.”
Advice For Those Looking To Enter The Industry
“Firstly, I think I know and understand that your voice and perspective really matter,” Barnwell says. “The tech industry is continuously evolving, and inclusion and opportunity must be embedded at every level. I think that’s really key. It’s really important that you seek out networks and mentors who align with your values.”
She also urges people to advocate for themselves, even when it feels uncomfortable. “Be intentional about developing your skills. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Sometimes we can be our biggest blocker. Really be intentional about wanting to develop.”
Finally, she encourages a mindset that makes room for growth. “Most importantly, embrace lifelong learning and remain open to new experiences.”
Building Connection and Understanding
Barnwell notes that Barclays has implemented reverse mentoring, pairing senior-level employees with junior-level colleagues so the junior colleague can help fill in gaps in the senior leader’s knowledge and experience.
Be intentional about developing your skills. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Sometimes we can be our biggest blocker.
“Reverse mentoring gives you an opportunity as a senior leader to really understand the journey that some of the junior colleagues go on, but it also helps you to embrace some of the differences that you’ll come across while helping them to navigate their careers.”
For Barnwell, inclusion isn’t just a policy, it’s a practice, a mindset, and a long-term commitment. Her journey reflects that belief, and her work ensures that others can carve out their own paths with support, visibility, and opportunity.
Barclays is hiring on POCIT.
