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At QueerTech, we are committed to driving equity and inclusion across Canada’s technology ecosystem by connecting, elevating, and empowering 2SLGBTQ+ professionals and allies. Through partnerships with leading organizations, we highlight the leaders who are shaping a more inclusive future in tech.
In this feature, we are proud to spotlight Snezana Stefanovic, Vice President, Cheque, Cash and POS & Trade Technology at RBC. A distinguished technology leader with over two decades of experience in digital delivery, cybersecurity, and business transformation, Snezana exemplifies the power of inclusive leadership in driving innovation. Beyond her impressive technical and strategic expertise, she is a passionate advocate for talent development and community engagement, serving as co-chair of RBC’s T&O Pride Employee Resource Group and contributing to multiple diversity and mentorship initiatives across the organization.
In this conversation, Snezana shares her journey through technology leadership, her insights on building inclusive teams, and her advice for 2SLGBTQIA+ professionals seeking to grow and lead in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Snezana Stefanovic is a Vice President at RBC, leading the technology and operations for various areas of Commercial Banking and Payments. She has over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, holding multiple leadership roles in application development, digital delivery, and cybersecurity. Snezana is responsible for setting strategic direction and developing technology platforms to maximize business opportunities and support internal operations. She is committed to creating exceptional client experiences and developing lasting partnerships with stakeholders. As a leader, Snezana is passionate about developing talent and has been recognized for her commitment and excellence with numerous awards. She is also involved in various community initiatives, including championing RBC T&O Pride, and supporting non-profit organizations. Additionally, Snezana participates in other community-based initiatives such as RBC Social Impact, RBC Diversity Program mentoring, Women in Leadership Advisory Circles for Early Talent, and chairing Book Clubs for RBC talent. She holds multiple academic degrees, including an Executive MBA from the University of Toronto.
Q. Can you tell us about your current role as VP, Cheque, Cash and POS & Trade Technology at RBC, and what a typical day looks like for you?
A. My typical day is always dynamic and fast-paced. I usually start my morning by reviewing our technology roadmap and priorities, ensuring that our teams are aligned and working towards our strategic objectives. From there, I meet with various stakeholders, including our business partners, to discuss their technology needs and how we can support their goals. A significant part of my day is also spent on talent development, coaching, and mentoring our team members to help them grow in their careers. I also dedicate time to staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends and innovations and how we could leverage them to drive business value and improve our customers' experiences. Throughout the day, I collaborate with my peers and other leaders to drive strategic initiatives forward. And of course, I make time for our Pride group, which is close to my heart. Overall, my role is a balancing act between strategic planning, leadership, and collaboration, with a focus on delivering innovative technology solutions that make a positive impact on our customers and communities.
Q. How did you get started in the tech industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field
A. I’m passionate about harnessing the power of technology to deliver tangible value to our clients and drive business success. My post-secondary education started with engineering, which I complemented with a Software Engineering master’s degree and later MBA. I’m fascinated by technology’s potential to transform the way we live and work, and I've been fortunate to have had opportunities to work on projects that have made a meaningful impact on people's lives. As I progressed in my career, my focus shifted from solely technical problem-solving to understanding the business and client needs, and how to leverage technology to address those needs. I believe that technology should be a catalyst for innovation, efficiency, and growth, and I've been inspired by the opportunity to work with cross-functional teams to design and implement solutions that drive real business outcomes. Today, as a technology leader at the bank, I'm excited to be at the forefront of our digital transformation: leveraging technologies like cloud, data analytics, and artificial intelligence. I'm committed to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning to achieve this vision.
Q. What are some of the most significant projects or initiatives you've led at RBC, and how have they impacted the organization?
A. In RBC there is never a shortage of interesting initiatives. We have recently completed the integration of HSBC Bank Canada and it was a truly remarkable time where thousands of RBC-ers worked together to solve for a very complex transition. From the technology transformation angle, I've had the privilege of leading the charge on our cloud platform that enables our business lines to quickly deploy and scale new digital services. This project has had a profound impact on the organization, as it has allowed us to accelerate our digital transformation, improve our time-to-market, and enhance the overall customer experience.
I'm proud of the work that I've done at RBC, and I'm excited to continue leading initiatives that drive business value, improve our customer experience, and enhance our overall technical capabilities.
Q. What motivated you to get involved with the T&O Pride ERG, and what do you hope to achieve in your role as co-chair?
A. As co-chair of the T&O Pride ERG, my goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for all employees to be their authentic selves. I hope to achieve this by promoting RBC’s values of inclusion and by working with leaders to develop policies and practices that support the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ employees. I also believe allies play a crucial role in this effort, and their support and advocacy are essential in creating a truly inclusive environment. By working together, both 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and allies can help to break down barriers and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding, ultimately making our organization a better place for everyone.
Q. What advice would you give to 2SLGBTQ+ individuals who are just starting their careers in tech, and how can they navigate potential challenges?
A. For 2SLGBTQ+ individuals starting their careers in tech, it's helpful to find a workplace that aligns with their values and provides a supportive environment. They should research companies that have inclusive policies, employee resource groups, and a track record of promoting inclusivity. Building a professional network of peers and mentors who can offer guidance and support is also crucial. When navigating potential challenges, such as discrimination or bias, it's vital to know their rights and the resources available to them, including HR support and external organizations that specialize in 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy. By being prepared, seeking out supportive communities, and focusing on their skills and qualifications, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals can thrive in the tech industry and help create a more inclusive and diverse work environment.
Q. What do you believe are the most important qualities or characteristics for a leader to have when it comes to creating an inclusive, supportive and productive work environment?
A. In RBC, we strive for exceptional employee engagement where everyone can be the best version of themselves. For leaders to enable this, empathy and active listening are crucial to understand and appreciate the diverse perspectives and experiences of their team members. Additionally, leaders should be adaptable and open to feedback, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow alongside their team. A commitment to fairness is essential, as it ensures that all team members are treated with dignity and respect. Leaders should also prioritize transparency, accountability, and psychological safety to create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and mistakes without fear of retribution. By embodying these qualities, leaders can build trust, encourage collaboration, and drive success within their teams.
Q. Is there a particular message or piece of advice you'd like to share with our readers, especially those who may be struggling to find their place in the tech industry?
A. To QueerTech readers, I'd like to offer a message of encouragement and support. Your unique perspective and experiences are valuable assets in the tech world. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and don't hesitate to seek out resources and communities that cater to 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in tech. Focus on building your skills, celebrating your successes, and learning from your setbacks. Most importantly, know that you are not alone, and there are people and organizations working to create a more inclusive and welcoming tech industry for everyone. Keep pushing forward and know that your contributions and presence are making a difference.
To learn more about RBC’s Pride ERG visit: here.
QueerTech is proud to partner with organizations like RBC, whose leaders exemplify the values of inclusion, innovation, and community impact. Voices like Snezana Stefanovic’s remind us that authentic leadership and diverse perspectives are essential to driving meaningful change in the tech industry. Together, we continue to build a future where 2SLGBTQ+ professionals can thrive, lead, and shape the technologies that power our world.