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Once characterised as a “boys’ club”,��the��finance sector is undergoing a��cultural shift��that is reshaping how decisions are made. Greater representation at senior levels is increasingly recognised as��influencing��how capital is��allocated.��

�ԹϺ��� Business��School’s��third annual Women in Finance event��explored��how women are influencing capital markets and redefining leadership across sustainable finance.��

An investment narrative that is��rooted in��embracing change��

The keynote address was delivered by Hortense��Bioy, former Head of Sustainable Investing Research at Morningstar Sustainalytics, who focused on building a more sustainable and inclusive financial future. She explored how geopolitical uncertainty��has��reshaped sustainable investing strategies, creating both complexity and opportunity.��

“The media often debates whether ESG is dead,”��Bioy��observed. “What we are��witnessing��right now is an evolution of practices, a recalibration by businesses and investors alike. What’s fading is a version of ESG that relied heavily on labels and was often disconnected from financial outcomes, to make room for pragmatism and realism.”��

Her message underscored the importance of data-driven research and thoughtful analysis in navigating rapidly changing markets.��She also offered advice to young women entering the sector, encouraging attendees to embrace opportunity:��“Step beyond your comfort zone.��Visibility��and persistence matter.��No is rarely the end.”

Improving gender inclusion in sustainable finance

The panel discussion, moderated by Fiona Frick, Finance Advisory Board Member and Founding Partner at Circe Invest, examined how female voices are shaping sustainable finance, impact investing and fintech.��

Lise��Renelleau, Head of Research and Innovation for the IQ Lab at HSBC Asset Management, reinforced the importance of measurable impact. She expressed optimism that as access to high-quality data improves, ESG – once perceived as a top-down imposition – is increasingly being integrated into portfolio construction and reporting. While AI and advanced technologies can enhance data analysis, she stressed that human judgement remains essential in translating information into meaningful insight.

Kamini Banga, Chair of the Banga Family Trust, reflected on her experience working in India, where workplace equity was less established when she began her career. From��identifying��public healthcare investment needs in rural communities to overseeing��family enterprise, she highlighted the importance of a just transition in emerging markets.��

Zoe Jankel, Vice President and Senior Credit Officer at Moody’s Ratings, spoke about cultural change within organisations. She noted a shift away from expectations that women must conform to traditionally masculine leadership styles. Increasingly, authenticity is recognised and valued at senior levels.��

The evening concluded with remarks from Lara Cathcart, Academic Director for MSc Finance and MSc Risk Management and Financial Engineering.��Acknowledging the significant evolution in the finance industry,��she��reflected that��there are still male-dominated pockets, especially at the senior leadership level:��

“Representation is not simply about equity; it directly influences how capital is��allocated, how risk is assessed, and how innovation is fostered. Through events like Women in Finance, �ԹϺ��� Business School reaffirms its commitment to advancing women across the financial sector, creating space for leadership,��visibility��and meaningful dialogue.”��

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Note: This article's headline was updated from: “Representation influences capital allocation” says Professor of Finance at �ԹϺ���’s third annual Women in Finance event��on 05.03.2026.