International Financial independence is very important for every woman, even if they are homemakers, said Deepti Rustagi, Chief Legal and Regulatory Compliance Officer at PB Fintech in an exclusive interview with GoodReturns.In ahead of women’s dat. She believes financial independence enables confidence for women in decision-making at every stages of their life. In regards to PB Fintech’s diversity and inclusive workspace, she said, the company promotes gender-neutral and inclusive hiring.

PB Fintech is the parent company of Policybazaar and Paisabazaar.

Here are the excerpts from the interview of Deepti Rustagi, Chief Legal and Regulatory Compliance Officer at PB Fintech with GoodReturns.In.

1. As a woman in a leadership position, what challenges did you face in your career, and how did you overcome them?

As a working professional and mother of two, I’ve strived to consciously navigate the inherent trade-offs of balancing career and family. By building a strong support network – my spouse, family, and workplace – I’ve tried my best to create an environment of trust and cooperation, recognizing that each plays a pivotal role in a working woman’s life cycle. For instance, as children grow and their needs evolve, priorities like critical work meetings and school parent-teacher meetings must coexist. I’ve learned to release guilt when requesting time for these occasional yet irreplaceable moments (even if just half a day, once or twice a year). Such flexibility is balanced by dedicating extra hours, late-evening calls, or travel commitments to ensure responsibilities are met.

2. What advice would you give to aspiring women leaders in the financial and insurance sector?

Live in the moment – at work or at home. Give your 100% and never shy away from seeking help when it matters.

3. How has women’s participation in financial decision-making evolved over the years?

Financial independence is very important for every woman, even if they are homemakers. It gives you confidence in your decision-making at all stages of your life. If your finances are sorted, one can lead a much happier life.

4. What are the key barriers preventing women from investing in insurance and financial security products?

Lack of information, knowledge, and confidence. There is a general perception that men handle finances better and will take care of the family.

5. How is Policybazaar working towards increasing awareness and adoption of insurance among women?

The company is working closely with insurance partners and is co-innovating products tailored to meet women’s unique needs and life stages. A number of campaigns are run on TV and social media that use storytelling to highlight real-life scenarios where insurance safeguards women’s futures and aspirations.

6. How does Policybazaar promote gender diversity and inclusion within the organization?

The company promotes gender-neutral and inclusive hiring. Roles and responsibilities are assigned based on experience, calibre, and the right fit. Hybrid/flexi work policies are extended based on requirements, and childcare support is provided to balance personal and professional commitments.

7. What message would you like to give to women on International Women’s Day 2025?

Be yourself. Never try to fit in, we all have our unique qualities, celebrate them. Be bold to stand by your personal choices, whether that’s at work or at home.