Helena Morrissey is a well-known figure in finance, gender equality, and public speaking. She studied philosophy at Cambridge University.
Helena started her career in the City in the late 1980s, facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field. After experiencing discrimination, she became determined to advance her career and support other women. She joined Newton Investment Management, where she was mentored by founder Stewart Newton. Helena became CEO after seven years, leading the company for 15 years and significantly increasing profits and assets.
In 2010, Helena founded the 30% Club to improve gender balance on UK corporate boards. Initially met with resistance, the initiative successfully increased female representation on FTSE 350 boards from 12.5% to over 30% by 2019, without legislative intervention. She advocates for a leadership style that values collaboration and listening and serves as a trustee for the Eve Appeal, a charity focused on gynaecological cancers.
Helena has received many accolades, including being named one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s 50 Greatest Leaders and the Financial Times Person of the Year in 2017. In September 2020, she was appointed Baroness Morrissey of Chapel Green.
As a public speaker and author, Helena published "A Good Time to Be a Girl" in 2018, reflecting on her experiences and advocating for gender representation. Her latest book, "Style and Substance: A Guide for Women Who Want to Win at Work," offers practical career advice for women.
Currently, Helena is a member of the House of Lords and chairs the Diversity Project, promoting inclusivity in the financial services sector. She actively engages with her audience on social media, sharing insights on her advocacy work.
