From her early days at Ernst & Young to her current role as Head of Client Accounting in Stonehage Fleming’s Isle of Man office, Emma Cullington, has forged a fulfilling career marked by growth, flexibility, and a strong network of female leaders, something to which she credits the local business culture.

‘In my experience, the Isle of Man excels in nurturing women in leadership roles,’ she says. ‘The environment feels inherently inclusive, with numerous inspirational women demonstrating that professional barriers are surmountable.’

In practical terms, adds Emma, the island community plays a crucial role. ‘We have a really good financial sector and regulatory environment. The size of the network and ease of accessing key contacts within the financial sector are great advantages. I can pick up the phone to the local customs and excise, be on a first-name basis with that person and get answers I need when I need them.’

Beyond the professional benefits, Emma also appreciates the work-life balance that Stonehage Fleming Isle of Man offers. ‘The commute is very short, which means I can be walking my dog on the beach in the morning and back in time to take my children to a sports club in the evening. It all helps. Integrating personal and professional responsibilities is important for working women, who often shoulder the additional mental load of managing both household and family duties.’

When reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme of #AccelerateAction, Emma admits her own journey has been shaped by the backing and guidance of many influential women. She names Sheila Dean, Sue Cowley and, current colleague, Claire Mclellan, as the best examples. ‘They have all had an active role in my career progression, from spotting my potential and taking me from an administrative role, to championing my growth within the organisation. I have been very fortunate in terms of positive influences,’ Emma reflects. ‘Sadly, it is not something that everyone can say.’

Despite the many positives of living and working in the Isle of Man, Emma concedes that recruitment remains a challenge due to a small population and relative geographical isolation. ‘The stretch of water between the island and United Kingdom can be a real deterrent for potential candidates. And while it has its positives, the tight-knit community can appear difficult for newcomers to integrate. For me, though, the island’s many strengths outweigh the challenges and can be leveraged to attract and retain top talent.’

In her role as a leader, Emma emphasises training, mentoring, and recognising the talents of her team members. She takes pride in being the ‘subject matter expert’ that her colleagues can turn to for guidance and problem-solving, while adopting a collaborative leadership model. ‘I am supported in this by my colleague, Claire Mclellan, who excels in the interpersonal skills often overlooked in people management. It allows me to focus on what I’m good at while ensuring that my team receives the necessary support and development opportunities they require.’

Through this approach, Emma seeks to pay forward the backing she has had over the years in her own career, praising the network of colleagues and mentors who have been instrumental in her success. ‘I’ve never ever felt on my own,’ she says, ‘I’ve always had amazing people around me, supporting me and being willing to help. That spirit of supporting one another is the single most significant thing that has helped me over the years.’

She strives to be a good example to her widening network of global colleagues at Stonehage Fleming. ‘I want to be someone people can naturally come to when they have a problem. It is how I have managed to grow and I want to support that growth journey for others.’

It may surprise people outside the community that the Isle of Man is able to set such a positive example when it comes to the future of women in the workplace, but Emma is proud to attest to its positive example. ‘Seeing so many women in leadership roles in the Isle of Man has given me that drive to say: “I can do this”’ she says. ‘It wouldn’t be possible without a cultural commitment to nurturing diverse talent, regardless of gender. Our community has created an environment where women can thrive and reach their full potential.’