Additional Coverage:
- I’m a CEO and mom of 3 with a disabled child. My husband stays home and looks after the kids — I sometimes struggle with mom guilt. (businessinsider.com)
Fintech CEO Juggles High-Powered Career with Family Life, Including Child with Special Needs
Sophie Condie never imagined she’d be a CEO, especially while raising three children, one of whom has a rare genetic brain disorder. Yet, in 2024, she was promoted to CEO of Shieldpay, a UK-based fintech company. Condie credits her experience raising her son Reuben, who has Joubert syndrome, with making her a better leader.
While she always envisioned motherhood, Condie also prioritized her career. After Reuben’s diagnosis, which affects his breathing and muscles, she briefly considered becoming a stay-at-home mom.
However, after the birth of her second child, she realized she needed the stimulation of work for her own well-being. With full-time care support for Reuben, she returned to the fast-paced world of fintech.
Condie’s ascent to CEO at Shieldpay was rapid, moving from operations director to COO and finally to CEO within just a couple of years. While thrilled with the promotion, she was also concerned about the impact on her family. Her daughter’s initial excitement over her mother’s new role eventually turned to apprehension, prompting important conversations about balancing work and family.
Condie admits that being CEO is demanding, requiring her to focus on strategy and business planning in addition to operational tasks. She strives to maintain a strong work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of being present with her family when she’s at home. Her husband recently became a stay-at-home dad, allowing Condie to focus on her demanding career while ensuring their children receive the care and attention they need.
Condie acknowledges the challenges of balancing a high-powered career with family life, particularly during school holidays. However, she believes that raising Reuben has equipped her with valuable leadership skills.
His sensitivity to loud noises and sudden movements has taught her to be measured and observant, qualities that have proven invaluable in intense work situations. She also credits her experience with nonverbal communication as key to understanding the dynamics of a room and effectively leading her team.
Despite the challenges, Condie remains driven by her ambitions for Shieldpay and her dedication to her team. While acknowledging the pressures many working parents face, particularly mothers, she encourages them to be kind to themselves and strive for a balance that works for them.