In the high-stakes world of City finance, conformity has long been seen as a safe path. Yet, for John McCalla-Leacy, a prominent leader at wealth management firm Evelyn Partners, the opposite has proven true. His career is a testament to the power of embracing one's unique identity, not hiding it.
From Early Challenges to Leadership Advocacy
McCalla-Leacy's journey to becoming a partner and head of the firm's key client group was not without its hurdles. Growing up gay in a working-class community in Liverpool, he initially felt pressure to mask parts of himself to fit into the professional environment. He recalls the early days of his career, feeling the need to adopt a more "masculine" persona and avoid discussing his personal life, a common experience for many from underrepresented backgrounds.
However, a pivotal moment came with the realisation that this act was not only exhausting but also counterproductive. He understood that the very experiences that made him different – his background, his perspective, his identity – were sources of resilience and insight. This shift towards authenticity became his professional superpower, allowing him to connect with clients and colleagues on a more genuine level and fostering an environment of trust.
Driving Tangible Change at Evelyn Partners
Now in a senior position, McCalla-Leacy is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion (D&I), moving beyond rhetoric to implement concrete actions. He emphasises that a diverse workforce is not just a moral imperative but a commercial one, leading to better decision-making and more innovative solutions for clients.
At Evelyn Partners, he has been instrumental in pushing for progress. This includes active participation in and support for the firm's various employee network groups, such as those for LGBTQ+ staff, women, and ethnic minorities. He stresses the importance of "allyship" from senior leadership, arguing that those in positions of power must actively listen, champion diverse talent, and create pathways for progression.
His advocacy extends to mental health awareness, recognising the intense pressures of the finance sector. McCalla-Leacy promotes a culture where employees feel able to speak openly about wellbeing without fear of stigma, understanding that this is integral to a sustainable and successful workplace.
The Business Case for Authenticity
The core of McCalla-Leacy's message is a powerful business argument. In a global market serving a diverse clientele, firms that reflect that diversity are better equipped to understand and meet client needs. "Your difference is your strength," he asserts, a mantra that challenges the outdated notion of a single "type" for success in finance.
He points out that individuals from non-traditional backgrounds often develop exceptional skills in empathy, adaptability, and problem-solving – precisely the skills needed in modern client-facing roles. By encouraging people to bring their whole selves to work, companies unlock this potential, driving performance and fostering a more dynamic, attractive culture for top talent.
John McCalla-Leacy's story is more than a personal success; it is a blueprint for the future of the finance industry. It demonstrates that the courage to be authentic can be the foundation of exceptional leadership and a catalyst for meaningful organisational change. For aspiring professionals and established firms alike, his experience offers a compelling case: embracing diversity in all its forms is not just the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do.
