Reflecting on 2024: Challenges, milestones, and the road ahead

Together, we’ve made a difference

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s natural to reflect on the year we’ve had—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. And what a year it’s been! We’ve tackled challenges head-on while achieving milestones that remind us why WIBF exists: to create a more inclusive, equitable financial services industry.

Acknowledging the challenges

Let’s start with the hard truths. This year has been a wake-up call for the financial sector. The FCA’s Culture and Non-Financial Misconduct Survey revealed a 72% increase in reported cases of bullying, harassment, and discrimination over two years. Over a third of firms didn’t even bother reporting these incidents to their boards, and nearly 40% of London market insurers lacked governance structures to manage them.

And then there’s the gender pay gap. Women in senior finance roles are still earning 30% less than their male counterparts—a disparity so bad it’s beaten only by wall-tiling (yes, The Times really went there). While I’m all for DIY, I’d rather not see finance competing with grout for the worst gender gap title.

Progress has been frustratingly slow, but the very existence of these conversations shows the industry is paying attention—and so are we.

Celebrating the milestones

Despite the challenges, we’ve achieved so much together this year:

• 116 events delivered: From thought leadership sessions to mentoring opportunities, reaching professionals across the UK and beyond.
• Enhanced digital platforms: Our new systems enabled over 500 mentoring partnerships, hosted 20,000 job adverts, and delivered valuable insights for members.
• Driving DE&I: New partnerships and initiatives brought us closer to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Building talent pipelines: We launched a student engagement strategy and a female financial advisor network to tackle the critical shortage of women in financial advice.
• Focusing on social mobility: We’ve laid strong foundations for impactful initiatives in 2025.
• WIBF Awards: Celebrated 26 years of trailblazers with our first-ever live events across London, Birmingham, and Edinburgh under the theme “A Splash of Purple,” honoring suffragettes and showcasing exceptional talent.

These achievements belong to all of us—our members, boards, volunteers, and supporters—who bring WIBF’s mission to life every single day.

Looking ahead
As I prepare to hand over the baton, I feel immense pride in how far we’ve come together. WIBF is now a thriving social enterprise with a permanent team, expanded programmes, and a growing reputation for driving real change.

But let’s not rest on our laurels. 2025 promises to be a year of tackling socio-economic barriers, expanding our mentoring reach, and amplifying women’s voices in finance. Change is hard, but we’ve proven that, together, it’s possible—and even a little fun along the way.

Your role in the journey

You’ve helped us get this far, and we need you for the next leg. Whether you mentor, attend events, or share your insights, your involvement is the key to breaking barriers and challenging the status quo.

Thank you
To every member, volunteer, and supporter—thank you. Your energy, passion, and commitment are what make WIBF the force for good it is today.

As we head into the holidays, let’s celebrate all we’ve achieved and look forward to a brighter, bolder future. Have a joyful and restful holiday season, and here’s to an incredible 2025!

Warmest regards,

Anna Lane

WIBF CEO & President