Open Banking Expo partners with American Express to launch Women in Open Banking

Open Banking Expo has teamed up with American Express to launch Women in Open Banking, a new industry initiative which aims to “help women rise up and realise their potential” in Open Banking and Open Finance.

The initiative – heralded as a “world first” – and announced at Open Banking Expo UK in London yesterday (20 October), will address gender parity in the industry.

It is intended to act as a platform from which to build a diverse pool of role models and raise a new generation of female leaders in Open Banking.

Founding members Open Banking Expo and integrated payments company American Express will host quarterly briefing breakfasts and roundtables, as well as a series of mentoring workshops with the leaders and trailblazers in Open Banking, Open Finance and Open Payments.

American Express’ Holly Coventry

Holly Coventry, vice president, international Open Banking payments at American Express, called the initiative “vital”.

“Women in financial services have continuously faced challenges when it comes to being recognised or given opportunities to advance their careers,” said Coventry.

“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.”

She 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.”

The inaugural Women in Open Banking breakfast briefing is expected to take place in early 2023, with the launch of a series of quarterly mentoring workshops to follow.

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.” 

The first cohort of the Women in Open Banking programme will be given opportunities to attend local industry events and to come on the Open Banking Expo Unplugged podcast.

To find out more about the initiative and how to participate, either as a member or a mentor, click here.