NDA has partnered with the newly-launched Women in Trading group for an interview series finding out more about the group’s members and its mission.
Duri Mehmet is the Group Trading Director at Orion Worldwide. With over 15 years of experience in the media industry, Mehmet previously worked at Sky Media and News UK.
What makes you proudest about Women in Trading and why?
Bringing an idea to life which has taken 2 years to get up and running! Actually making it happen and seeing the response from the network makes me really proud. The support we’ve received has been overwhelming.
We’ve heard from across the industry that this is something long overdue and much needed. There is a real appetite for what we are aiming to do, which is to help attract, retain and champion women to trading roles and create real visibility in an area that currently had very little diversity.
How did you first move into a trading career?
After six years of working on the media owner side at Sky, like many others, I “fell” into the world of trading when I joined News UK as a Trading Manager. I was able to build on the skills I’d developed at Sky and apply them to my new role at News UK.
What is the biggest opportunity for women in trading today?
To be trendsetters, to pave the way for other women and greater diversity in trading—that’s exactly what we aim to do: clear the path and inspire others.
This also comes with the opportunity to work in an incredible environment undergoing significant transformation. While there are more opportunities than ever before, there is still a long way to go.
What is the most exciting aspect of the sector?
The people you meet and the relationships you build. I also love the variety—no two days are the same. My role involves working with so many different touchpoints across the business and being part of some amazing experiences. It’s also exciting to see how trading is evolving across the industry.
What are the biggest challenges to be overcome in trading?
The lack of diversity in all senses of the word—whether that’s gender, race, class, or age. We need to encourage more women into these roles and increase overall diversity.
Personally, I’ve never seen anyone like me to look up to or aspire to, which makes this challenge feel even more personal. Another issue is the lack of visibility in the role of trading—it’s often not championed, even though it’s such a critical role.
What support structures and organisations are most important and effective to you as a woman in trading?
Scotworks, The Hobbs Consultancy, and NABs have all been valuable in the past. Now, the Women in Trading network has become a key source of support!
7.Do you think trading roles are still seen as traditionally ‘male roles’? What needs to be done to combat this?
Yes, although it’s improving, there’s still a long way to go. We need to ensure women are aware that trading is a viable career path—– I had no idea about trading until I fell into it.
Men also need to actively support women in these roles, giving them the space to grow and develop. And it’s not just trading teams, TV and media sales leads also remain largely male-dominated, but giving women more central roles is a critical step towards change.
How can companies better help their female workforce in trading roles?
They need to actively encourage women into these roles to ensure visibility. It’s hard to aspire to something if you can’t see anyone like you in the role.
Supporting women as they progress from junior positions and providing ongoing internal and external training is vital. Managers also play a key role by offering mentorship and guidance throughout their careers.
What characteristics make a good trader?
Being organised, a good communicator, and an effective negotiator are essential. Knowing when to speak and when to listen is equally important, as is anticipating different outcomes and options in a negotiation. I also believe softer skills and emotional intelligence are increasingly valued in this space.
Who is your mentor, hero, or inspiration in the trading sector?
Vanessa Doyle is not only a colleague and part of the Women in Trading committee but also a friend and someone I’ve always admired. I first met Ness at News UK and have learned so much from her since then. She’s brilliant at her job and an all-around fantastic person.
I’m also incredibly fortunate to have unwavering support from AJ, our UK MD at Orion. Having people who back you, believe in you, and push you to be your best makes a huge difference. And of course, the wonderful WIT committee who always inspire me!
