Open Banking Expo, the global community of Open Banking and Open Finance executives responsible for digital transformation across financial services and beyond, has partnered with American Express in order “to launch the world’s first Women in Open Banking.”
The new industry initiative is “aimed at leading the change in gender parity in Open Banking and Open Finance by inspiring and fueling an environment that accelerates professional growth and business success for women, and will help inspire and raise a new generation of female leaders in Open Banking and beyond.”
Holly Coventry, Vice President, International Open Banking Payments at American Express, said:
“American Express is thrilled to partner with Open Banking Expo on this vital initiative. Women in financial services have continuously faced challenges when it comes to being recognized or given opportunities to advance their careers. Gender equality at all levels across the business is at the core of American Express’ culture and we have made huge progress in the number of women in senior management roles, and the range of different perspectives and experiences they offer.”
Holly added:
“At a personal level, I believe this initiative will work to help women rise up and realise their potential, and at a wider industry level, it will enable us to showcase diversity of talent and thought, unlock creativity and innovation in the sector, leading to more inclusive products and services.”
Adam Cox, co-founder of Open Banking Expo, said:
“Sadly, women still form the majority of the under-represented groups across financial services. With Women in Open Banking, we hope to change the odds by helping remove barriers to entry, accelerate growth and personal development through impactful mentoring opportunities, and to ultimately make Open Banking and Open Finance the industry of choice for future leaders and change makers.”
As part of the initiative, the founding partners will “host quarterly briefing breakfasts, roundtables, as well as a series of mentoring workshops with the leaders and trailblazers in Open Banking, Open Finance and Open Payments.”
The Women in Open Banking initiative will also “provide a perfect platform to build a more diverse pool of role models and leaders from diverse backgrounds.”
The initiative will “bring together the best, brightest and biggest industry experts to share their knowledge and experience and to offer insights, skills and inspiration to supercharge women’s careers in the sector.”