IWD 2026: accelerating progress for women in asset finance

International Women’s Day 2026 is more than a moment of celebration for the asset finance industry – it is a marker of tangible progress, growing visibility and collective responsibility.

Across lenders, brokers, lessors and professional services firms, women are shaping the future of asset finance with strategic insight, operational leadership and a strong commitment to collaboration. At Finance Connect, that momentum is both recognised and actively championed.

Leadership, visibility and voice

“Asset finance has evolved significantly over the past decade,” says Eva Lindsay. “We are seeing more women not only entering the sector, but leading teams, driving innovation and shaping strategy. The focus now must be on ensuring that pathways to leadership are visible, accessible and supported.”

She continues: “At Finance Connect, we believe representation matters – not just at senior level, but across every function of the industry. When women see others succeeding, it strengthens confidence and ambition. Our role is to create platforms that amplify those voices and encourage open dialogue.”

Her words reflect a broader shift within the sector: a growing understanding that diversity strengthens performance, decision-making and long-term resilience.

The Leasing Foundation: spotlighting women across the sector

One of the most visible drivers of progress is the work of the Leasing Foundation and its EDI Group.

Now in its third year, the Foundation’s Women’s Spotlight Series has become a firm fixture in the industry calendar. Throughout March, the Foundation publishes a daily spotlight on an exceptional woman working in the sector, sharing her reflections, lessons learned and advice for others.

What began as a recognition initiative has evolved into something much more powerful – a growing community of women who continue to nominate others and pay recognition forward.

“The spotlight series has created real connections and community across the industry. We want to build on this and act on what we have heard so far. The gender programme is the culmination of insights gained from several strands of work and we are incredibly excited to be able to bring these together under one focused initiative.

“To help deliver this, we have a triumvirate of outstanding women leaders who will share their thoughts and insights throughout March across a range of topics. Ultimately, this is about making sure that progress happens and that it is something we build together.”

The emphasis on community – rather than competition – is resonating strongly. The series has created visibility for women at all stages of their careers, from rising professionals to established leaders.

Further amplifying these conversations, Helena Thernstrom recently joined the Finance Connect Asset Insights Podcast to discuss inclusion and leadership across the asset finance sector. In conversation with host Edward Peck, she explored what meaningful inclusion truly looks like in a relationship-driven industry, highlighting the importance of visible leadership, open dialogue and the role culture plays in shaping opportunity.

Community in action: The AFPA Trust IWD Lunch

The industry’s commitment to International Women’s Day is powerfully reflected in flagship events such as the annual AFPA Trust IWD Lunch.

Bringing together professionals from across the asset finance community, the lunch has become a cornerstone of the sector’s calendar – an opportunity not only to connect and exchange ideas, but to celebrate achievement and shared purpose. More than a networking event, it reinforces an essential truth: meaningful progress happens when the industry moves forward together.

“It’s a unique opportunity to pause and recognise the incredible contributions women make to this sector every day. By bringing us all together for such a great cause, AFPA Trust ensures that as our industry grows, so does our commitment to supporting and inspiring one another.”

The 2026 AFPA Trust IWD Lunch once again proved its impact, selling out ahead of its return on 4 March at the Royal & Over-Seas League. The event welcomed 130 professionals from across asset finance to celebrate the achievements and influence of women throughout the wider finance community.

This year’s programme delivered both inspiration and insight – from thought-provoking career reflections shared by Tamsin Napier-Munn to an exceptional three-course lunch curated by MasterChef winner Irini Tzortzoglou, and a captivating conversation with fashion entrepreneur Karen Millen OBE.

Events like the AFPA Trust IWD Lunch do more than mark a date in the calendar. They strengthen cross-sector relationships, create space for open and honest dialogue about career progression and leadership, and help shape the practical actions needed to drive genuine, lasting equality across the industry.

Moving from conversation to measurable progress

While progress is evident, there is recognition that the work is ongoing.

“The industry has made important strides,” Eva Lindsay notes, “but the next phase is about measurable impact – mentoring structures, sponsorship, flexible leadership pathways and a continued focus on inclusive culture. Momentum must be maintained.”

She adds: “International Women’s Day provides a focal point, but the responsibility sits with all of us year-round. Real change happens when organisations embed inclusion into strategy, not just messaging.”

In asset finance – a sector built on enabling growth for businesses across the economy – ensuring diverse leadership is not only a social imperative, but a commercial one. Broader perspectives strengthen risk assessment, customer understanding and innovation.

A collective commitment

International Women’s Day 2026 reflects an industry increasingly aware of its responsibility, and its opportunity.

From the daily recognition of the Leasing Foundation’s spotlight series to the convening power of the AFPA Trust’s IWD lunch to the ongoing commitment of organisations like Finance Connect, the direction of travel is clear: greater visibility, stronger networks and a shared determination to accelerate progress.

As Eva Lindsay concludes: “When we create space for women to lead, collaborate and be recognised, the entire industry benefits. The goal is simple – an asset finance sector where talent thrives regardless of gender, and where success is something we build together.”

This International Women’s Day, asset finance is not only celebrating women’s achievements – it is investing in the future they are shaping.