Published: March 2025
International Women’s Day (IWD) offers us a chance to not only celebrate the immense achievements of women worldwide but also to reflect on the progress yet to be made in the pursuit of true gender equality.
In financial services, a sector long dominated by men, this day carries special significance. IWD holds even greater significance as it highlights both the incredible strides women have made and the work that remains to ensure equal representation at all levels. Women in financial services are breaking barriers, influencing policy, and creating innovative solutions that are reshaping the future of the industry. Historically, finance was perceived as a ‘man’s world,’ where leadership and advice roles were scarcely occupied by women. However, we’ve witnessed a transformative shift in recent years, with women like Jane Fraser, the first female CEO of a major Wall Street bank (Citigroup), and Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, breaking down barriers and demonstrating leadership in a traditionally male-dominated space.
At MM Wealth, the first female Director, Stef Heslop, was appointed in 2023, bringing considerable experience in her field of Accounting and People Management. 33% of our Financial Planning team are female which is well above the national average of 18%* and we’re proud to say that 40% of the overall company is female.
*Just 18% of regulated financial advisers in the UK are women, according to the Financial Conduct Authority’s records – reports the FT Adviser: Number of female advisers grows by just 2% – Source: FTAdviser. We are therefore well ahead of the growth documented within the profession.
Why Representation Matters
We are seeing an increase in female investors and prospective female clients wanting to speak to female financial planners, and at MM Wealth we can offer that service with pride.
Representation of women in financial services is not only a matter of fairness but also a key driver of industry success. Studies have consistently shown that gender-diverse teams outperform their counterparts – bringing varied perspectives that lead to more innovative solutions and better financial performance. Diversity in leadership can drive change, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and reflect the diverse clientele served by financial institutions.
The Growing Backlash Against Diversity
Despite the clear business case for diversity, there has been a noticeable backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives recently. Some critics argue that DEI efforts unfairly disadvantage men or prioritise representation over merit. At MM Wealth, we are committed to a merit-based system where gender does not determine advancement. Nobody should be either advantaged or disadvantaged by gender; true equality lies in recognising talent and competence above all. Placing individuals in roles based solely on gender rather than merit and ability, undermines both the person appointed and the cause of true equality.
Equal Opportunities at MM Wealth
At MM Wealth we prioritise hard work, competence, and talent, regardless of gender. To satisfy a quota or tick a diversity box risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes that women need artificial boosts rather than acknowledging the fact that they are fully capable of competing on a level playing field.
We believe the focus should be on creating environments where opportunities are equally accessible to all, without bias or barriers. This means fostering workplaces that support all employees based on their ability, talent and contribution.
On this International Women’s Day, let’s continue driving real progress: ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, are empowered with equal opportunities, based on their skills, achievements and potential.
If you would like to talk to one of our female Financial Planners, please contact us on 01223 233331 or email info@mmwealth.co.uk.
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