CIO at Appreciation Financial
Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself
I am Lydia Scherr, based in the United States, where I fulfill my role as the Chief Information Officer at Appreciation Financial. My responsibilities include driving technological advancements and improving operational efficiencies. Beyond my corporate role, I am deeply committed to humanitarian causes, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. As the Founding Citizen Diplomat of The People’s Accords, I advocate for initiatives that promote a healthier, more sustainable global society. My academic journey, highlighted by a Master's degree in Climate and Society from Columbia University, bolsters my dedication to these causes. With a diverse array of skills ranging from strategic planning to multilingual communication (English, Mandarin Chinese, and Hebrew), my focus is on creating positive global impacts and fostering a future where sustainability and human welfare are paramount.
What has your journey to your position been like? What path have you taken?
Reflecting on my journey, it feels like a thrilling expedition where each step propelled me towards my passion for technology and sustainability. It all started with my foundation in speech communication and rhetoric, a field that taught me the power of words and effective communication. This early experience was crucial when I pivoted to focus on environmental issues, obtaining my Master's in Climate and Society from Columbia University.
My career path is a tapestry of diverse experiences. From being an independent consultant in website design to internships at the United Nations and Green Electronics Council, I immersed myself in the world of sustainability and circular economy. I vividly remember how my roles in data analysis and research at GRN Vision and as a Sustainability Research Consultant deepened my understanding of environmental challenges.
The real game-changer was joining Appreciation Financial. Starting as a Data Architect and evolving into the Chief Information Officer role, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology in business. Additionally, founding The People's Accords wasn't just a milestone; it was a manifestation of my commitment to a sustainable future. Each chapter of my journey hasn't just been about professional growth; it's been about nurturing a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the world.
Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?
Absolutely, reaching my current position as a tech leader was always part of my vision. From the onset of my career, I was driven by a fascination with technology and its potential to create positive change. My journey wasn't just about climbing the corporate ladder; it was about harnessing technology to make meaningful impacts. Every role I undertook was a strategic step towards this goal. Whether it was honing my skills in website design or delving into data analysis, each experience was a building block in my vision to become a tech leader. My role as CIO at Appreciation Financial is not just a title; it's the culmination of a long-held dream to lead in the tech space, where I can blend my technical expertise with my commitment to sustainability and societal betterment.
Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey?
Certainly! My father has been an incredible mentor and role model throughout my journey. His influence began early in my life when he recognized my potential and passion for technology. He encouraged my growth by ensuring I attended various seminars and workshops, which played a pivotal role in sharpening my skills and broadening my understanding of technology and its applications. His guidance and foresight in nurturing my talents from a young age laid a solid foundation for my career, making him an invaluable part of my success story.
How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I envision the role of technology leaders evolving significantly, aligning with global socio-political dynamics. We're likely to see technology leaders gain influence comparable to political figures, emphasizing the growing intersection between technology and governance. This trend is exemplified by the emergence of "tech diplomats," who act as liaisons between governments and technology companies. As technology increasingly becomes integral to societal functioning, the role of a tech leader will evolve to encompass not just business or product innovation but also a deeper involvement in shaping global policies and ethical standards related to technology. The continuation of this trend will redefine the technology landscape, with tech leaders playing pivotal roles in decision-making at the highest levels of governance.
What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?
Critical thinking will be paramount for future leaders to thrive. Drawing from my experience as a competitive debater, I've learned the immense value of evaluating evidence, scrutinizing sources, and dissecting arguments. This skill enables one to effectively construct and deconstruct arguments, essential in a world increasingly laden with misinformation and high-tech scams. In an era where technology and access to information are ubiquitous, the ability to discern truth from falsehood is not just useful but necessary. Leaders who can critically assess information and make decisions based on solid evidence will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world and lead effectively.
How do you keep current with new skills, technologies and personal development?
Keeping current with new skills, technologies, and personal development is a dynamic process for me. I regularly engage with the latest industry literature, participate in professional workshops, and attend relevant conferences. Networking with other professionals in my field also plays a crucial role, as it allows me to exchange ideas and stay abreast of emerging trends. Additionally, I make it a point to experiment with new technologies in my projects, ensuring hands-on experience. This combination of theoretical learning and practical application ensures that my skills and knowledge remain sharp and relevant.
What do you see as the next leap in technology that will impact your business or industry in particular?
The next significant leap in technology that will impact my industry is likely to be advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize how we handle data, make decisions, and automate processes. AI's ability to analyze vast amounts of data and derive meaningful insights will be particularly transformative, enabling more informed decision-making and innovation. Additionally, the integration of AI into various aspects of business operations will streamline processes, enhancing efficiency and productivity. This leap will not only redefine our business models but also necessitate a shift in the skills required to thrive in the industry.
"Always be open to new knowledge and perspectives."
If you were mentoring a leader of the future, what advice or guidance would you give to help them on their way?
Certainly. Here's a concise version of the advice for a future leader:- Embrace Continuous Learning: Always be open to new knowledge and perspectives to stay adaptable and informed.
- Cultivate Emotional Intelligence: Understand and manage your emotions, and empathize with others to build strong, collaborative relationships.
- Maintain Integrity: Lead with honesty and transparency, as your ethical compass is essential for gaining trust and respect.
Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?
In my career, I aspire to see Appreciation Financial become a household name in finance. Additionally, I have several inventions created in my spare time that I hope to bring to the market, aiming to help people globally. My ultimate vision is for The People's Accords to grow into the world's largest and fully self-sustained citizen diplomat society, driven by successful investments in projects proposed by our citizen diplomats. These goals represent the next significant milestones in my journey, blending professional success with meaningful societal contributions.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
A big thank you to Lydia Scherr from Appreciation Financial for sharing her journey to date.
If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.
