International Women's Day Q&A: Joanna Smart

Q&A with Joanna Smart, Head of Compliance

What’s one opportunity that helped shape your career path?  Within a year or two of graduating I was mentored by a leader who specialised in Compliance.  We only worked together for a year or so, but she instilled in me a passion for regulation, which 25 years later has proven to be the foundation of my career. 

What’s the best professional risk you’ve ever taken?  Changing roles.   Those changes in role and the people I surround myself with have provided me with the most professional and personal growth.  I’m excited to have joined Berkley Specialty London at the end of 2025 and to be working with inspirational women such as Natasha Grasso and Jacqui Hedges. 

What’s a book, podcast or film by a woman you’d recommend?  Women & Power by Mary Beard.  It's a short introductory text, but also thought-provoking.  Beard is a classist and examines the historical roots of women's role in society and how these connect to the climate we see today.