International Women's Day: Celebrating the Women Shaping the Future of Finance
International Women’s Day is a time to recognise progress, reflect on opportunity, and celebrate the women who are shaping industries, leading change, and inspiring the next generation.
Within the finance sector, women continue to redefine leadership, strengthen expertise, and bring fresh perspective to a field that is constantly evolving.
At Finance Education Centre, we are proud to work alongside ambitious, driven women committed to developing their knowledge, building confidence, and advancing their careers. Education and professional development play a vital role in creating pathways for growth, and behind every qualification gained or milestone achieved is a story of resilience, determination and vision.
This year, we are honoured to highlight several remarkable women who have engaged with our programmes and are making a meaningful impact within finance.
Meet the women leading the way
Bethan Holliday
Head of Operations (Asset Finance) – Time Finance
What inspired her journey
“I am that person who has always liked figures and so although I fell into finance more than choosing it, I have always enjoyed it and continue to do so today.
What keeps me in the industry is the challenges that continue to come across my desk. There will always be a unique deal that tests my brain.”
This foundation laid the groundwork for a career that has continued to evolve with curiosity, problem-solving, and resilience.
Career evolution & defining milestones
“I have evolved from a Junior Finance Assistant when I was 18 to Head of Operations.
A key milestone for me was starting a team from what was once an idea around a table to becoming a strong, successful Broker desk team. Another standout moment was being given the opportunity in my current role, where my ideas are always welcomed to work towards a successful, growing business.”
Growth through professional development
Having engaged with Finance Education Centre programmes, she reflects on the impact of learning:
“I have worked with Finance Education Centre for a while now and was lucky enough to attend the Introduction to Finance Brokers course. The course solidified my thoughts on the Broker world and enabled me to continue to educate those around me on the expectations and needs of a Broker.
It gave colleagues a completely different outlook on the world of a Broker, and they were able to take these learnings into their roles to better understand the people we deal with on a day-to-day basis.”
“Every day is a school day. You never know it all and personal development will always be something I desire for myself and the team around me. Allowing myself to be open to learning has supported my growth and development. Always ask questions.”
Ongoing education not only strengthens technical capability but builds confidence, something many women identify as a key driver of progression.
Navigating challenges
“I was once called a silly little girl. I was once dismissed for being a woman and told I wasn’t strong enough for the role – it was more suited to men apparently! I have also experienced the struggle of returning to the workplace as a woman after having children.
All came with their own challenges, and I have used colleagues around me as well as my can-do attitude to navigate these times and continue to let my work do the talking. This has allowed me to become the successful woman in business I am today.”
Her reflections highlight the importance of resilience, confidence, and a supportive network in overcoming barriers.
Empowering the next generation
“The finance industry is heavily male-oriented. Educating and supporting women to pursue this vocation is important to ensure we continue to keep a balance across the industry.”
“Organisations can empower women by allowing all voices to be heard. Sad as it is to say, there are still men who cannot or will not hear the voice of a woman. This has to be addressed wherever it is happening to stop this archaic attitude.
I am lucky enough to work in an environment where women are empowered to grow and lead. Businesses should regularly review their leadership teams to ensure equality in representation.”
And her message to those just beginning their journey:
“Believe in yourself, remain positive, and find a support network to guide you.”
Danielle Gray
Finance Professional & Trainer at the Finance Education Centre
What inspired her journey
“Like every young girl, I dreamed of having a career in finance. Honestly, I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I was younger or what motivated me. I fell into my first job with a recommendation from my sister who worked for Lombard at the time and the rest, as they say, is history.
I fell in love with the people, the company and the customers I was supporting. I knew then that I would have a long career in this industry and that is as true today as it was then, 20 years on.
I continue to be motivated by the successful women I see across all industries, not just finance, how they strive to be the best they can and raise up other women as they go.”
This foundation laid the groundwork for a career that has continued to evolve with purpose and ambition.
Career evolution & defining milestones
“My first role was creating finance documents for asset finance agreements but I knew I wanted to work closer with the customers directly. I moved up through Relationship Manager roles, supporting larger customers with bigger transactions but then my motivation changed. I wanted to move into leadership.
I will forever be grateful to Nick Tabiner who gave me my first relationship manager role and then, years later, trusted me with my first leadership role. He was a big cheerleader of mine and a great supporter of women in leadership roles and is still a great friend to this day.
My next defining moment was becoming a mother. This turned my life upside down (in a good way) but it changed my priorities. I had something that was now my entire life focus, a daughter, and I made the difficult decision to leave the finance world after 20 wonderful years.
I took a career break and focused on my family until I found the wonderful company, The Finance Education Centre, which gave me the opportunity to give back to the industry I have loved all of my working life. I can share my experiences and inspire the next generation of finance professionals — if Carlsberg did jobs!
I want to show my daughter that it’s ok to pivot, change your priorities as your life evolves, but always give your best and support others.”
Growth through professional development
Having engaged with Finance Education Centre through her work with the organisation, she reflects on the role learning and development plays in the industry:
“To build true connections, you have to be authentic — your true self — but coupled with this you need expert product knowledge. Without continued professional development this is hard to do, as we are in a forever-changing industry and those that don’t keep up are left behind.
Investing in yourself and your teams is what keeps us relevant and enables us to be a true trusted advisor to our customers and colleagues. The gift of the gab will only get you so far!”
Ongoing education not only strengthens technical capability but builds confidence — something many women identify as a key driver of progression.
Navigating challenges
“For me, being underestimated has been a common theme — by a small minority of customers and colleagues — but this has actually been a great motivator and, I believe, my superpower.
I have been fortunate that I have surrounded myself with colleagues and leaders who want to build you up and see the value in doing so. This is certainly how I have forged my career and network, and I’ve made great friends along the way.”
Her reflections highlight both the progress being made and the importance of sustained support within the industry.
Empowering the next generation
“In my experience, some women lack the confidence to put themselves forward in what has been, for many years, a male-dominated industry.
Supporting women with education, instilling confidence, and surrounding them with likeminded people who want to build you up and watch as you soar… that’s the dream. I have lived this experience and it is my pleasure to pay this forward as so many before me have done.”
“Organisations can empower women simply by showing what is possible. More women in senior roles showcasing their talent and lived experiences can inspire the next generation to start out in this industry in the first place and demonstrate what is possible.”
And her message to those just beginning their journey:
“Be brave, be curious and be kind. That’s three pieces of advice I know, but in an uncertain world I think it fits for every part of life, not just professionally.”
Elizabeth Flynn
Director of Asset Finance – Lombard
What inspired her journey
“My career began at NatWest Bank and from the very start I was drawn to finance, whether supporting personal customers or working with businesses. This year marks my 25th anniversary with Lombard and what continues to motivate me is simple: supporting our customers.
Running alongside that is the genuine joy I find in seeing colleagues grow and develop. Every day is a learning day, no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.”
This foundation laid the groundwork for a career that has continued to evolve with purpose and commitment to both customers and colleagues.
Career evolution & defining milestones
“From collecting the post at age 16 to leading a team today, my career has evolved significantly. Each role I’ve held has been defining in its own way, so I wouldn’t single out just one.
That said, the role I’m in now leading a team of 11 asset finance professionals is without doubt the most rewarding.”
Growth through professional development
Having engaged with Finance Education Centre through her work supporting development programmes, she reflects on the impact of learning and training:
“Alongside leading my team, I manage our face-to-face training needs for Lombard Asset Finance. The first course I attended as an observer was delivered by Danielle Gray, who is incredibly impressive.
Watching the cohort grow through that programme reinforced how vital development is. It showed me that when we invest in our people this truly supports their career journeys and helps them thrive.”
“Ongoing development is essential regardless of your level or experience. With macroeconomic changes, new legislation, evolving products and the rapid advancement of AI and digital tools, staying ahead is critical.
To grow, you need to keep learning, remain curious and take your development seriously.”
Ongoing education not only strengthens technical capability but builds confidence – something many women identify as a key driver of progression.
Navigating challenges
“Personally, I don’t feel I’ve experienced gender-specific challenges. At both Lombard and NatWest, I’ve always felt that people are treated equally and respectfully.”
Her reflections highlight both the progress being made and the importance of continuing to foster inclusive, supportive environments within the industry.
Empowering the next generation
“For me, this applies to everyone. It’s not just about supporting women – it’s about supporting all individuals, whatever their goals may be. Whether someone wants to excel in their current role or progress to the next, providing support and development opportunities is fundamental. That is a core part of my role every day.”
“I strongly believe that investing in people’s development is essential. Does the asset finance market do enough of this? That’s a question many businesses could productively ask themselves.”
And her message to those just beginning their journey:
“Be yourself. Be open to feedback. Keep learning. Try new things – you won’t know what works until you give it a go. Being male or female isn’t the barrier; often, we are our own biggest barrier. So, believe in yourself.”
Ellie Penalver
Director – Sabini Commercial Finance Ltd
What inspired her journey
“My route into finance wasn’t entirely planned. I started my career in a corporate accountancy environment, where I gained early exposure to how businesses operate and the important role finance plays behind the scenes.
My move into commercial finance came when I made the decision to step away from my previous role and help build and grow a finance brokerage alongside my partner. It was a big shift, moving from employment into running a business and learning a new industry at the same time.
What motivates me today is seeing the real difference the right funding can make to small and medium-sized businesses. For many business owners, finance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about growth, stability, and future plans. Being able to support those journeys, while building something ourselves, is what continues to drive me.”
This foundation laid the groundwork for a career that has continued to evolve with purpose and ambition.
Career evolution & defining milestones
“My career has changed significantly over the past year. Earlier in my professional life, I worked in operational roles where my focus was on supporting teams and ensuring things ran smoothly behind the scenes.
Since becoming involved in growing our own company, that experience has expanded into a broader role across operations, strategy, and business growth. The transition has meant applying existing skills in a new environment while adapting quickly to the wider demands that come with growing a business.
The defining moment for me was making the decision to step into business ownership. Moving from contributing within an organisation to helping shape and grow one has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding, accelerating my development both professionally and personally.”
Growth through professional development
Having engaged with Finance Education Centre through the Asset Finance Product Knowledge course via the Finance Broker Academy, she reflects on the impact of continued learning:
“I attended the Asset Finance Product Knowledge course through the Finance Broker Academy, which provided valuable insight into the technical structure and application of asset finance products.
The programme strengthened my understanding of how different funding solutions can be structured to best support clients’ individual circumstances and long-term objectives. Developing a deeper product knowledge has allowed me to approach conversations with clarity and confidence, ensuring that funding solutions are tailored appropriately rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
The training has played an important role in supporting my progression within the industry, enabling me to contribute more effectively to client discussions and deliver more informed, solution-focused outcomes.”
“Continued professional development has supported my growth by strengthening my understanding of finance structures, lender requirements, and credit risk. Ongoing learning, combined with practical experience working closely with lenders and clients, has enabled me to develop a more commercial and client-focused approach when structuring funding solutions.”
Ongoing education not only strengthens technical capability but builds confidence.. something many women identify as a key driver of progression.
Navigating challenges
“One of the biggest challenges for me was stepping into a new industry and feeling like there was a lot to learn in a short space of time. When you move into something unfamiliar, it’s natural to question whether you know enough or are ready yet.
I’ve learned that confidence tends to follow experience rather than come before it. By continuing to learn, ask questions, and gain hands-on experience, that initial self-doubt gradually disappears and is replaced with confidence built through doing the job day to day.”
Her reflections highlight both the progress being made and the importance of sustained support within the industry.
Empowering the next generation
“Supporting women in finance is important because confidence often comes from seeing what’s possible. When more women enter and progress within the industry, it helps others feel that there’s a place for them too and encourages more people to pursue opportunities they might not otherwise consider.”
“Organisations can do more by making opportunities, training, and career progression clearer and more accessible. Providing the right tools, support, and development opportunities helps people build courage and understand how they can progress within the industry.
Simple things like transparent career pathways, access to learning, and encouragement to take on new responsibilities can make a meaningful difference in helping individuals develop.”
And her message to those just beginning their journey:
“Confidence doesn’t need to come before you start. It develops through learning, experience, and simply giving yourself the opportunity to grow.”
Hannah Tabor
Training & Events Co-ordinator – Finance Education Centre
What inspired her journey
“I was drawn to finance because I enjoy structure, problem-solving, and bringing clarity to complex situations. Transitioning from working in a police control room to finance was a big step — but I’ve always been motivated by the impact I can have. Finance isn’t just numbers; it influences decisions, strategy, and growth. Being part of that keeps me inspired.”
Career evolution & defining milestones
“My career has evolved from focusing on technical delivery to taking ownership of broader responsibilities and contributing to decision-making.
A defining moment for me was realising that my value isn’t just in completing tasks, it’s in the insight, judgement, and reliability I bring. That shift in mindset has been a turning point.”
Growth through professional development
Through her engagement with the Finance Education Centre programme, she reflects on how learning has shaped her professional growth:
“Through my engagement with the Finance Education Centre programme, I strengthened both my technical understanding and professional confidence. It gave me the chance to challenge myself, refine my skills, and step back to see the bigger picture of my role.
That experience reinforced that continuous learning is essential in finance and supported my progression by building both competence and credibility.”
“Ongoing training and professional development have helped me stay current, adaptable, and confident. Finance is constantly evolving, and continuous learning ensures I can contribute effectively and proactively, while strengthening my credibility.”
Ongoing education not only strengthens technical capability but builds confidence – something many women identify as a key driver of progression.
Navigating challenges
“One challenge has been ensuring my voice is heard and recognised in a male-dominated environment. I’ve learned the importance of advocating for myself, setting boundaries, and leaning on mentors and supporters when needed.
Confidence grows when you consistently back yourself and your work.”
Her reflections highlight the value of resilience, mentorship, and self-advocacy in navigating challenges.
Empowering the next generation
“Representation and guidance matter. Supporting women in finance builds confidence, nurtures leadership, and ultimately strengthens the industry. Mentorship, training, and visibility create environments where women can thrive.”
“Organisations can create clearer progression pathways, offer mentorship opportunities, and foster cultures that value diverse leadership styles. Recognising contributions and measuring performance on outcomes rather than visibility alone makes a significant difference.”
And her message to those just beginning their journey:
“Trust your capability. You don’t need to know everything to add value. Ask questions, seek mentors, and remember that consistency and reliability are just as powerful as visibility. Advocate for yourself, but don’t underestimate the strength of quiet competence.”
Reflections on International Women’s Day
“It’s a time to celebrate the resilience, capability, and impact of women, while reflecting on the progress still to be made. It’s also a reminder of the importance of lifting each other up — something I’ve been lucky to experience firsthand.”
Women who have inspired her
“Firstly, my mum. Transitioning from working in a police control room to pursuing a career in finance was a big shift. At times, it felt daunting to start again in a completely different sector. Whenever I’ve had moments of doubt, she has been there to remind me of my strengths and how far I’ve come. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to take that leap.
I’m also incredibly grateful to Wendy Richards, who supported me through the transition from the public to the private sector. Her guidance, reassurance and belief in my capabilities helped me navigate unfamiliar territory with greater confidence. Having someone who genuinely champions your potential makes a lasting difference.”
Hopes for the future
“I hope that over the next 5–10 years, the industry will continue evolving so women no longer feel they have to adapt to fit in, but instead, the industry evolves to reflect and value diverse leadership styles.”
Education as a catalyst for confidence
A common theme shared among the women featured is the transformative role of professional development.
In an industry where regulation evolves, markets shift, and leadership demands adaptability, continuous learning is not simply beneficial – it is essential.
At Finance Education Centre, our mission has always been to support individuals in building knowledge, strengthening capability, and progressing with confidence. By creating accessible, high-quality training pathways, we aim to contribute to a more inclusive and empowered finance sector – one where women are equipped not only to participate, but to lead.
International Women’s Day reminds us that representation matters. But beyond representation, opportunity, education and encouragement are what sustain long-term change.
Looking ahead
The stories shared here reflect resilience, ambition, and the importance of investing in growth. They also demonstrate that when women are supported through education and professional development, the ripple effect extends far beyond individual success. It strengthens teams, organisations and the industry as a whole.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognise the achievements of the women featured in this article and reaffirm our commitment to continuing to support their journeys, and the journeys of many more to come.
The future of finance is being shaped by capable, confident women. We are proud to play a part in that story.