The leadership journey: Senior industry leaders share the skills, setbacks and shifts that shaped them

About this event

The Leadership Journey is a candid conversation for earlier stage career women in banking and finance and those looking to refine their skill set in leadership.

Our panel of leaders will share how their view of leadership has evolved, how they attacked Imposter Syndrome with confidence, and the one skill they wish they’d developed earlier. Expect honest stories about setbacks, self-doubt and the moments that quietly shaped their careers.

We’ll explore practical ways to lead without formal authority, keep momentum when things don’t go to plan, and challenge the biggest myths young professionals hold about “being ready” for leadership. Attendees will leave with concrete strategies to build influence from where they are, a clearer picture of what modern leadership can look like for women in finance, and renewed confidence to take the next step in their own journey.

With time in the agenda for informal networking both before and after the panel, come along and meet your local WIBF team.

Timings

5pm - Arrival and Networking
6pm - Panel Starts
7pm - Networking
7.30pm - Close

Our panel

EY Audit Bristol - Equity Partner - Primary Sector: Consumer Products, Technology Eleri James

Eleri is an Audit Partner at EY based in Bristol, with more than 25 years of audit and assurance experience. Since joining EY as a graduate in 2000, she has worked with FTSE 100 companies, global organisations and owner-managed businesses across a wide range of sectors, including media, retail, telecoms and consumer products.

Known as a people-focused and approachable leader, Eleri is passionate about mentoring and supporting the development of women professionals, bringing extensive expertise across UK GAAP, IFRS and US GAAP reporting.

Director, Wales & South West - National Wealth Fund Rebecca Jarrett

Rebecca is the Wales and South-West representative for the National Wealth Fund (formerly the UK Infrastructure Bank), leading engagement across both the public and private sectors to drive investment and economic growth across the UK. Since launching in 2021, the organisation has committed £27.8bn to support national growth and infrastructure ambitions.

Fractional CMO Liz Edwards

Liz is a Fractional CMO with over 30 years’ experience across financial services and fintech, having held senior roles at Reuters, Thomson Reuters, Credit Suisse, and Women’s World Banking. She specialises in helping scaling businesses craft compelling narratives, align internal culture with external brand positioning, and deliver marketing strategies that drive commercial growth, visibility, and long-term impact.

Deputy Head of Corporate Banking, South West & Wales - HSBC Claire Bees

Claire leads a team of Relationship Directors supporting businesses across the region. With more than 10 years’ experience in corporate banking, She is passionate about building strong client relationships, developing people and helping businesses achieve their growth ambitions.

Claire is also a Sustainable Finance Ambassador, supporting clients and teams to build more sustainable businesses. Outside of work, she is a proud mum to her 21-year-old daughter, who has recently graduated from university, and enjoys long walks in the Somerset countryside with her dog.