Innovate Finance Unveils the 2018 Women in FinTech Powerlist
Innovate Finance, the independent industry body championing the UK FinTech sector, has recently published its highly anticipated Women in FinTech Powerlist for 2018. This initiative, which began in 2015, has gained significant traction, attracting a global audience and an impressive 1,200 nominations this year alone. The Powerlist showcases 150 remarkable women who are not only excelling in their roles but also making substantial contributions to the FinTech landscape.
A Global Spotlight on Female Talent
The 2018 Powerlist shines a light on women from diverse backgrounds and regions, reflecting the growing maturity of the FinTech ecosystem. This year, the list has been categorized into seven distinct groups: Senior Leaders, Rising Stars, Technology Professionals, Investors, Policy Makers and Regulatory Experts, Marketers & Communicators, and Financial & Professional Services. This categorization aims to provide a clearer pathway for aspiring professionals to find role models relevant to their specific career trajectories.
The Standout 35
Among the 150 featured women, a select group has been recognized as the "Standout 35." This distinction is awarded to those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation within the industry. A panel of independent judges, including notable figures such as Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, and Ron Kalifa, Executive Board Director at Worldpay, evaluated the nominees. Their expertise and insights helped identify those who are truly shaping the future of FinTech.
The Call for Nominations
Innovate Finance actively encouraged the FinTech community to nominate deserving candidates, resulting in a remarkable response. The overwhelming number of applications underscores the wealth of female talent in the sector. Charlotte Crosswell, CEO of Innovate Finance, expressed pride in the Powerlist’s release and emphasized the importance of recognizing these women who are making significant impacts despite the ongoing challenges of under-representation in funding and leadership roles.
The State of Women in FinTech
Despite the celebration of female talent, the statistics for women in the FinTech sector remain concerning. Women account for just under a third of the workforce in UK FinTech, and female founders continue to face significant hurdles in securing investment. Innovate Finance’s 2018 Venture Capital Investment Report revealed that only 3% of the $1.7 billion in VC funding for FinTech in the UK went to firms led by women. This stark reality highlights the need for continued advocacy and action towards gender equality in the industry.
Notable Firms Represented
The 2018 Women in FinTech Powerlist features representatives from a wide array of organizations, including prominent FinTech firms and major banking institutions. Notable names include Allen & Overy, Accenture, BBVA, Barclays, Schroders, TransferWise, Monzo, and OakNorth, among others. This diverse representation not only showcases the breadth of talent but also emphasizes the collaborative nature of the FinTech ecosystem.
A Call to Action
Charlotte Crosswell’s remarks resonate deeply within the industry: while the Powerlist celebrates achievements, it also serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done. The FinTech sector must move beyond mere acknowledgment of diversity and inclusion; it must take actionable steps to ensure that women are not only represented but also empowered to lead and innovate. The Women in FinTech Powerlist is a crucial step in this direction, highlighting the incredible contributions of women and inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.