Meet Peta Latimer, a mentor with the Her World Mentorship Programme

Being a woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) can often mean being the lone female voice in meetings, or the unintentional target of unconscious biases. For the second year of our Her World Mentorship Programme, we want to empower young women by providing them the tools, guidance, and support needed to break down these barriers and overcome limiting beliefs.

Nine exceptional mentors – each with a wealth of experience and expertise – tell us why they are passionate about giving back and share the wisdom they’ve gleaned throughout their careers. 

Before she joined Mercer Asia, the largest human capital consulting business in the world, Peta Latimer’s career journey began in finance. “I wanted to be a stockbroker and make a lot of money,” she recalls. “So I studied finance and economics, but after six months working in front of a computer, I found it so boring.”

And so, she eventually transitioned into a graduate programme within a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company, where she realised that what she truly cared about was the management of people and initiatives. Her path eventually led her to pursue a master’s degree in psychology, augmenting her understanding of human behaviour, and further igniting her passion for people.

At Mercer, renowned for its data-driven insights across careers, workforce health and institutional wealth, Peta’s role as a strategic leader spans 11 diverse markets across Asia. Her mission is clear: to tailor Mercer’s solutions to meet the unique labour market demands of each region.

Reflecting on her journey, Peta offers invaluable advice for those looking to switch careers: “You must think about your career as a game of skill acquisition. Every job you take should be about gaining new skills and learning. The more skills you acquire, the faster you’ll move up the career ladder, and the more opportunities you’ll have. Your career growth will be broader and more dynamic if your skills are versatile and adaptable.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career switch?

It’s not about the job title or anything else; it’s about the skills you gain. People often feel stuck in a certain role, but if you focus on the skills you’re developing, it makes it easier to apply for new jobs or transition into different industries. Many people, especially women, hesitate to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet all the qualifications. You need a foundational skill set, but don’t be afraid to take on roles you’ve never done before to learn and grow. I wish more people thought this way instead of following the traditional linear career path.

Why did you decide to become a mentor with the Her World Mentorship Programme, and what do you hope to impart to our mentees?

I believe Singapore boasts some of the most talented individuals in terms of skills. However, in my experience, many lack confidence in showcasing their abilities. There’s a hesitation, particularly in Asian cultures, to actively seek opportunities and promote oneself. I approach this differently, and am eager to assist people in overcoming such barriers. During a recent talk I had at SG Career Forward on career success, I received numerous inquiries from women about returning to work, lifelong learning, and the challenges of finding employment despite experience. If I can offer direct assistance to people facing such dilemmas, I’m more than willing to do so. Moreover, my involvement with Her World provides access to a diverse group of women and potential mentees beyond my current network.

What excites you most about the potential impact of a mentorship programme like this?

Structured mentorship programmes offer great opportunities to work closely with individuals, and support them in their personal and professional growth. Reverse mentoring is also valuable – I’ve been in Singapore for 12 years now, and I love the exposure to different cultures and ideas. While I’ve had informal mentorship experiences at work, this is my first time formally mentoring someone. I believe in sharing advice based on personal experience, although sometimes, a different perspective can be beneficial.

For example, I’ve encouraged my Singapore friends to negotiate their salaries more assertively. Confidence is key in mentorship, and I hope to instil that in my mentees. You don’t have to do everything perfectly, but as long as you’re giving it your best and having fun along the way, that’s what matters.

PHOTOGRAPHY Veronica Tay
OFFICIAL BEAUTY PARTNER Cle de Peau Beaute
ART DIRECTION Ray Ticsay & Adeline Eng
STYLING Neo Lirong, assisted by Sabrina Kong
HAIR & MAKEUP Benedict Choo, Aung Apichai and Clayton Goo, all using Cle de Peau Beaute
LOCATION Mandala Club