Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence in Finance

Written by

Isabella Clarke-Price

Published

2 June 2023

Blog type

On 25 May 2023 at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, Imperial College Business School gathered to celebrate 25 years of excellence in finance. The event, which marked a significant milestone in our institution's history, proved to be a resounding success with over 400 finance professionals, esteemed academics, and passionate graduates in attendance.

"It really was so impressive to see how many alumni and other key guests joined us, and that includes those who flew into London just to attend this high-profile celebration of 25 years of excellence in finance."

Joël McConnell

Executive Director of Institutional Relations

Expert panel and Q&A on the topic of “finance for good”

The evening commenced with a keynote address by Professor Ralf Toumi, Co-Director of the Grantham Institute. His thought-provoking speech shed light on innovative carbon capture techniques and the cutting-edge technology required to achieve Net Zero outcomes.

Following the keynote address, a panel of experts took centre stage to discuss the topic of "finance for good." Distinguished representatives from diverse sectors, including government, pension funds, ESG players, private equity, and social impact investing, explored the vast array of capital sources necessary for funding the green revolution. The panel discussion fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas, emphasising the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling society's greatest challenges.

Panellists:

Chris Hunt (SandBrook Capital)
Katharina Schwaiger (Managing Director of Sustainable Solutions, Blackrock)
Mike Weston (Chief Executive, LGPS Central Limited)
Sarah Tennison (Head of Clean Growth Strategy and Impact, Innovate UK)
Michael Liebreich (Co-Managing Partner, EcoPragma Capital LLP Chairman & CEO, Liebreich Associates Host of Cleaning Up podcast and Jean de Fougerolles, Founder Ascension)

Award winners

The event also served as a platform to recognise the exceptional achievements of some of Imperial College Business School's most talented alumni. Their accomplishments stood as a testament to the institution's commitment to fostering excellence in financial research, teaching, and professional advancement. The evening became a celebration of their collective success and a source of inspiration for the next generation of finance professionals.

Beyond their personal accomplishments, these remarkable alumni have actively embraced their role as mentors and volunteers within the business school community. They have generously shared their knowledge, experiences, and industry insights, serving as guides and role models for current students.

Awards presented by Professors Lara Cathcart and Professor James Sefton, joint-Academic Directors of the MSc in Finance programme to:

Reda Farran, MSc Finance 2013
Jonathan Fielding, Investment and Wealth Management (MSc 1YFT), 2018
Roya Rahnejat, Risk Management (MSc 1YFT), 2007
Stephane Renevier, MSc Finance, 2013
Davide Sciuto, Investment and Wealth Management (MSc 1YFT), 2018

"It's been an absolute joy for me to give back to the school by hosting various career workshops and webinars in recent years. Receiving recognition for these efforts and being chosen for the award is a tremendous honor, and I am really grateful to James Sefton and Lara Cathcart for selecting both Stephane and me. "

Reda Farran

Award Winner

Forging Connections

Amidst the celebration of achievements and the exchange of knowledge, the event also provided a picturesque backdrop for alumni to reconnect and network while enjoying views of Hyde Park. As an alumni relations team, we pride ourselves on giving our alumni as many opportunities as possible to network and strengthen their professional relationships.

Are you an alumni and looking to be more engaged?

If so, then there are some easy steps you can take to re-engage with the Imperial Community:

Make sure your contact data is up to date and that you have provided consent for us to contact you with news, opportunities, and event information
Join us for events in London and around the globe, as a general guest or an alumni ambassador.
Participate in the next Global Giving Day which will be happening in the first half of 2024.
Share your success story with us, hire a graduate, help the school engage with your organisation... there really are so many ways to stay in touch and be an active member of the more than 24,000 Business School alumni located in more than 130 countries.