Ash Driver
Northern Hemisphere Project Lead, Xero
Tell us your story:
I’ve worked in the FinTech sector for the past 13 years, starting out with a background in accounting. I joined Xero in its early days, when there were just 15 of us, as one of the founding team who helped bring Xero to the UK.
Over that time, I’ve seen both Xero and the wider FinTech industry grow more conscious of the vital role that equality, diversity, inclusion, and belonging play in building stronger businesses. More recently, Xero has invested heavily in embedding this into everything we do — including establishing employee resource groups. I’ve been proud to be part of our Pride ERG over the past two years.
Impact:
Through the Pride ERG, I’ve worked alongside a passionate team to deliver initiatives that promote inclusivity, equality, and elevate diversity across the business. Some of the highlights include:
Partnering with Stonewall Housing to create volunteering opportunities across Xero.
Sponsoring and marching with Stonewall Housing at London Pride.
Contributing to donations that enabled new housing opportunities for vulnerable members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Running unconscious gender bias workshops throughout the UK.
Exploring diversity and allyship workshops for Xero employees’ children — helping to invest in the next generation of allies.
These initiatives have shown me the real, tangible impact that committed ERGs can have — both inside the business and out in the community.
Advice:
Be your authentic self – Take the time to understand your own values and what matters most to you. Let those values guide your decisions on where to work and how to grow. They’ll help you make the right choices and keep you grounded when challenges come up.
Choose the right environment – Don’t rush. Find a company whose values truly align with your own. Do your research and look beyond posters or mission statements - make sure those values are lived and breathed day to day. The right culture will give you the space to lean in and do your best work.
Use your voice – If you see something that doesn’t sit right with you, don’t stay silent. Speak up constructively, find the right channels, and push for change. Progress comes when we’re willing to stand up and be the change we want to see in the industry.
