Anna D. Vladau, partner lawyer in the canton of Vaud and the State of New York
Anna D. Vladau, partner lawyer in the canton of Vaud and the State of New York, leads a career committed to her clients in the fields of international taxation and other complex legal issues. She also teaches at HES Kalaidos and is an active member of legal associations such as the Jeune barreau Vaudois. In this interview, Anna shares her vision of female leadership in the legal field and what she considers to be the attitude required to achieve professional success.
Which step of your career would you chose as a turning point that has defined the leader you are today, and why?
It would be my experience in the United States with my postgraduate diploma in American fiscality and new York Bar. I discovered not only a new way of thinking but also a new culture. It allowed me to free myself of preconceived ideas and to dare to try new projects far from any prejudice. American culture is resolutely optimistic and turned towards the future; failure is a part of the learning process. I try to make the most of this by adding to it Swiss qualities such as excellency and precision.
It is more and more common to see women in leader positions in various fields, what changes do you see in leadership thanks to that?
The increase in the number of women in leadership positions is bringing about significant changes in leadership. First, we can observe a higher diversity in management styles, with a more collaborative approach that gives space for human-beings. What is more, their presence has contributed to question certain stereotypes and promote equitable environments. This also encourages other women to aspire to responsibility positions, creating a virtuous circle. Finally, this evolution pushes organizations to rethink their structures and policies (work-life balance, equal salaries, flexibility) which benefits not only women, but all workers/employees.
How is leadership considered in your field of work?
Lawyers registered at the bar do not generally consider themselves as leaders, but more as defenders of civil rights of citizens. Our role is fundamental to a democratic society, weakening attorney-client privilege weakens the rule of law. In this context, Leadership can be associated with the lawyer's duty to be the last line of defense against the State.
On a personal level, I also see leadership as a personal responsibility to train the lawyers of the future by giving them all the tools they need, but also by adapting to changes in society and technology.
What are the characteristics and qualities of the leader of tomorrow?
In my opinion, a true leader will be someone who can demonstrate humanity, listening skills and benevolence in order to motivate their teams to achieve the company's goal. They will need to be highly adaptable, particularly in relation to new technologies such as AI. The human factor must be central.
Would you like to add anything?
I would like to add that I find it difficult to call oneself a leader. In my opinion, it's not a goal in itself, but recognition of the work accomplished and the years of experience. Passing on this acquired knowledge and encouraging further development are, for me, a duty for anyone called a “leader”.
