Empowering lessons from Imperial’s Women in Finance panel discussion

Our speakers

• Rochelle Lucas - Chief Operating Officer, London Stock Exchange Group
• Lara Cathcart - Professor of Finance and Academic Director for MSc Finance, MSc Financial Technology, and MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering, Imperial College Business School
• Cláudia Custódio - Professor of Finance, Imperial College Business School
• Georgia Motsiou - Credit Risk Analyst at Fasanara Capital (MSc Finance & Accounting 2022 alumna Imperial College Business School)
• Namrata Iyer - Global Business Management Director - Global Trade Solutions at HSBC
• Julie Ng - Structured Credit Analyst, Moody's Investors Service (Alumna from Imperial MBA 2004 and B.Eng Mechanical Engineering 1999)
• Lisa Lueger - CAIA, Associate - Alternatives Distribution at BlackRock (Alumna MSc Management 2021 Imperial College Business School)

Attendees gained valuable insights from their experiences, learning important lessons that can shape their own paths in finance. Beyond the discussions, the event also provided a great opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and expand professional networks. In this blog, current MSc Finance student and Black Future Leader Award scholar, Itai Dzinotyiwei, shares her highlights from attending this inspiring event.

A bit about the event

The event took place in a stunning hall at the Royal College of Arts, adjacent to Imperial’s South Kensington campus. The majestic room featured a large screen showcasing each panelist and their impressive roles. The atmosphere was welcoming, filled with the buzz of conversations and the excitement of the attendees.

The discussion was both professional and personal, with each panelist offering practical advice and personal insights about their careers. It was inspiring to be surrounded by ambitious and intelligent women. Georgia Motsiou, a recent graduate from the Business School, highlighted the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone for real growth. Julie Ng emphasised the need to stay relevant by adapting skills to current demands, particularly encouraging us to embrace coding courses.

My motivations for attending Imperial’s Women in Finance panel discussion

Professional events like this are the perfect opportunity to recharge my inspiration and connect with like-minded women from diverse backgrounds. These gatherings foster a sense of celebration and openness, contributing to a jovial and supportive atmosphere. I anticipated the Women in Finance panel discussion to be relatable, uplifting and inspiring. I hoped to glean valuable insights from women who have successfully navigated their careers and paved the way for others. The event, moderated by Lara Cathcart, Imperial’s Director of Finance Programmes, added to my excitement. Any opportunity to hear her thoughts and insights is always worthwhile

Building a supportive and inclusive community in finance

I think events like this start a good conversation that may become fruitful in a week, a month or even a couple of years. These conversations allow students, alumni, staff and guests to reach out to each other more often, cheer others on and feel support which directly fosters a community that champions inclusivity. The ability to engage with many different women broadens our perspective. Experiencing this event in person reinforced just how big and diverse the Imperial women’s network truly is.

Memorable stories and advice from the panellists

One story that particularly resonated with me was about the importance of mentorship. Lisa Lueger emphasised the value of career guidance, highlighting how mentorship can shape professionalism, relationship management, and personal growth. She encouraged connecting with organisations that offer mentorship or directly reaching out to women we admire, starting with something as simple as a coffee or call.

These relationships can be mutually beneficial. I was surprised to learn that Lisa mentored a young girl in secondary school with a completely different background and passions, yet she gained valuable insights from her. This reverse mentoring was comforting, reassuring me that my participation as a mentee would be valuable.

Networking opportunities

I was pleasantly surprised by the diverse range of attendees, including current students, alumni, recent admits, and industry professionals, all eager to connect with fellow Women in Finance.

I had the opportunity to network with MBA alumni working in product management and account management roles. I also spoke with a newly admitted student excited to start her journey at Imperial and engaged with a vice president of a global asset manager about various career pathways. My connections ranged from social to career-driven, and I gained more valuable networks than I had ever imagined!

How the panel shaped my view on gender diversity in finance

Titled ‘Driving Future Skills and Industry Transformation,’ the panel discussion emphasised the importance of equipping oneself with relevant skills and confidently owning one's work. Women work hard, and their contributions are just as valuable as anyone else's. The key is to continuously improve and stay attuned to market needs.

The panel reinforced my belief that the finance industry values skills and rewards their effective utilisation. In terms of gender diversity and equality, seasoned professionals are open to support each other and those behind them. Seeing accomplished women offer valuable advice and engage with us highlighted that support is available and tangible if we reach out. My perspective has certainly changed for the better.

Valuable strategies for my future career in finance

Keynote speaker Rochelle Lucas highlighted the power of the narratives we tell ourselves in shaping our mindset. She addressed the common challenge of imposter syndrome, where thoughts like ‘I was lucky’ or ‘I did not earn this’ undermine our sense of worth. She debunked these thoughts by reminding us that if we can achieve something once, we can certainly do it again.

As we advance in our careers, it's important to own our successes and expand outside our comfort zones. Rochelle encouraged us to be strategic and open more doors for those who come after us. I also had a one-on-one conversation with a panelist who shared  valuable personal career advice and insights into her organisation.

Advice and lessons for students pursuing a career in finance

One speaker emphasised the importance of having both a mentor and a sponsor in the workplace. A sponsor, often a colleague, manager or leader, advocates for you and highlights your hard work in influential circles, aiding in career progression and recognition. Maintaining good relationships within the workplace is crucial for finding a sponsor. In the fast-paced finance industry, it's essential for students to remember the value of maintaining a strong professional reputation and building positive relationships throughout their careers.