Citi Marks Pride Month 2015 – Part 2

In recognition of Pride Month, a time to reflect upon the civil rights history and contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, we will be sharing personal reflections and stories of progress from individuals, both LGBT and straight allies, as they examine what it means to bring their full self to work.

Weber Lo, Citi Country Officer and Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong and Macau

When I adhere to the values of integrity, passion and transparency, I bring my full self to work.

Success will come and go, but integrity is forever. Integrity means doing the right thing at all times and in all circumstances, whether or not anyone is watching. It takes having the courage to do the right thing, no matter what the consequences will be. Building a reputation of integrity takes years, but it takes only a moment to lose.

My belief is that your success is determined in large part by the amount of passion you have for what you do. People have asked me where my constant energy comes from, and how do I add a bit of fun to working in an industry like banking. To be honest, what I always like to do is to draw close to those equally passionate people around me, and it's true – passion is contagious. Keeping connected with them brings mutual benefits for all as it often opens up new avenues of discussion and thoughts. I am particularly impressed by the passion exhibited by the Hong Kong Pride Network in organizing all the awareness and inclusion programs for the Hong Kong franchise.

At a time when our industry especially demands greater transparency and accountability, it is important that employees speak up. Often times, your value is not fully optimized because your voice does not consistently communicate your true self and what's really on your mind, hence drawbacks, hesitations and reservations. My policy is always to ensure the workplace makes it easy for employees to voice their opinion. An organization will thrive on a diverse, healthy exchange of ideas and thoughts; and opportunity will find its way to those who express their opinion, stand their ground, and strive to deliver a better solution.

Rich Martini
Region Training Director, Citi Learning – San Francisco, CA

When I am honest and open about my sexual orientation, I bring my full self to work.

My journey to share my personal relationship has taken place while I have been at Citi. From the day I came to Citi I have always felt comfortable in sharing my story – however, I did not initially do so. Though I live in San Francisco, one of the most diverse cities in the world, there has not historically been the understanding there is today about diversity and sexual orientation, especially in the workplace.

I credit my willingness to be open about my personal life in the workplace to a former manager and friend at Citi, who encouraged me to be open and share my life. Since I made the choice to share my sexual orientation I have been overwhelmed at the kindness and support shown to me by colleagues, peers and my team. I am "at my best" when I can be the person I am with the people I interact with every day. I am particularly proud to be part of the Pride Network at Citi.

Going forward, I hope to support those who are not ready to share their story as my former manager did for me. I am also proud to say that Markham, my partner of 17 years, and I just recently celebrated our anniversary with many well wishes from my Citi family.