Accelerating action: How GSB is Championing Women
The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is ‘Accelerate Action’, which is a call for businesses to move beyond words and take real, measurable steps toward gender equality. At GSB, we embrace this challenge daily—not just on IWD.
In the financial space, progress has been slow. Women remain underrepresented in leadership, and traditional structures often limit their potential. At GSB, we are breaking this cycle. With a 66% female C-Suite and a near 50/50 gender split across our businesses, we are leading the charge to make finance more inclusive.
But numbers only tell part of the story. Real progress comes from action—redefining leadership, creating inclusive workplaces, and fostering opportunities for women to thrive.
Leading by example: A culture built for growth
“At GSB, we are supremely proud of our almost 50/50 gender split across our businesses and that our C-Suite is made up of 66% women – a real achievement in the financial services industry,” says Andie Cobley, Chief People & Culture Officer.
“Our ‘culture first’ approach and commitment to flexible working empower our people to manage both their professional and personal commitments in the way that suits them best. This makes it easier for women to return to work after starting families or taking on care responsibilities, ensuring they don’t have to choose between career and home life.”
Rigid workplace structures have long been a barrier to women’s progression. At GSB, success is not measured by time at a desk but by the value our people create. By offering flexible working arrangements and a culture that supports both career and personal aspirations, we ensure that talent—not outdated policies—defines success.
Partnering for impact: Our work with Evolvin’ Women
GSB’s commitment to advancing women in finance extends beyond our own workforce. For the past two years, we have proudly partnered with Evolvin’ Women, a social enterprise dedicated to improving career opportunities for women in regions where political, economic, or social challenges limit their potential.
Through training, mentorship, and job placements, Evolvin’ Women equips women with the skills and experience to enter competitive job markets and build sustainable careers. By supporting initiatives like this, we are not only investing in individuals but also contributing to a more equitable financial sector.
True inclusion means not only advocating for the women already in the industry but also creating opportunities for those who might never have had access.
Women & wealth: A changing landscape
The financial world is evolving. More women than ever are building significant wealth—through entrepreneurship, inheritance, and investment—yet they remain underserved in wealth management. Many financial firms still take a one-size-fits-all approach, overlooking the distinct goals and priorities of female investors.
At GSB, we recognise that wealth is about more than numbers—it’s about legacy, impact, and security for the next generation. We take a long-term approach, working with female investors to align financial strategies with their ambitions, values, and aspirations.
Read more about The rise of ultra-wealthy women: A force for good.
A personal reflection from Alison Whatnall, Co-Founder of GSB
“As a mother, a leader, and a woman navigating both the boardroom and bedtime stories, International Women’s Day holds deep significance for me. It’s a day to celebrate progress, acknowledge challenges, and most importantly, reflect on the lessons we pass on to the next generation.
At GSB we champion these values every day, striving to create a world where women have equal opportunities to lead, grow, and thrive. But beyond the workplace, it starts at home—with the conversations we have, the examples we set, and the belief we inspire.”
Accelerating action
Johanna MacGinn, Director of People & Culture at GSB, shares:
“The IWD 2025 theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is a call for businesses to drive real, measurable change—not just talk about it. At GSB, we’re not waiting for the industry to catch up; we’re setting the standard.
Change starts with leadership, but it must be embedded in culture. At GSB, we prioritise real impact—whether it’s ensuring our leadership team reflects true diversity, creating a work environment that empowers women to return and progress in their careers, or supporting initiatives like Evolvin’ Women that drive global change.
Through inclusive leadership, flexible work policies, and investment in the next generation of female talent, we are redefining what financial services can and should be. To those who share our vision—whether as clients, partners, or industry peers—we invite you to be part of shaping a financial world where talent, ambition, and leadership opportunities are truly equal.”
Get in touch
Contact GSB today if you would like to discuss any of these matters with our in-house team.