“Representation influences capital allocation” says Lara Cathcart at 51Թ’s third annual Women in Finance event
51Թ Business School’s event showcased female leaders driving sustainable investing, ESG innovation and long-term value creation.
Once characterised as a “boys’ club”,thefinance sector is undergoing acultural shiftthat is reshaping how decisions are made. Greater representation at senior levels is increasingly recognised asinfluencinghow capital isallocated.
51Թ BusinessSchool’sthird annual Women in Finance eventexploredhow women are influencing capital markets and redefining leadership across sustainable finance.
An investment narrative that isrooted inembracing change
The keynote address was delivered by HortenseBioy, former Head of Sustainable Investing Research at Morningstar Sustainalytics, who focused on building a more sustainable and inclusive financial future. She explored how geopolitical uncertaintyhasreshaped sustainable investing strategies, creating both complexity and opportunity.
“The media often debates whether ESG is dead,”Bioyobserved. “What we arewitnessingright 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.Visibilityand persistence matter.No is rarely the end.”
“Through events like Women in Finance, 51Թ Business School reaffirms its commitment to advancing women across the financial sector, creating space for leadership, visibility and meaningful dialogue.”
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.
LiseRenelleau, 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. Fromidentifyingpublic healthcare investment needs in rural communities to overseeingfamily 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,shereflected thatthere are still male-dominated pockets, especially at the senior leadership level:
“Representation is not simply about equity; it directly influences how capital isallocated, how risk is assessed, and how innovation is fostered. Through events like Women in Finance, 51Թ Business School reaffirms its commitment to advancing women across the financial sector, creating space for leadership,visibilityand meaningful dialogue.”
Note: This article's headline was updated from: “Representation influences capital allocation” says Professor of Finance at 51Թ’s third annual Women in Finance eventon 05.03.2026.
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