The year 2024 was marked by impact and transformation for WIFS, with initiatives focused on inclusion, gender equality, and sustainability in the financial sector. We continue to work toward a future where the financial sector is as diverse and inclusive as our society, here’s a quick look back at the highlights of the past year.
March: Publication of the "Accelerate 50/50" Report
WIFS kicked off 2024 with the release of the "Accelerate 50/50" report.
The financial sector is taking the lead in accelerating gender-balanced leadership. According to the research conducted for Accelerate 50/50, the number of women on executive boards within the financial sector has increased by 7% over the past year. These are encouraging developments, but the need for further action to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the sector remains, particularly for consulting firms, which lag behind other financial institutions.
The research findings highlight the ongoing need to accelerate the path to gender-balanced leadership. While the report showcases progress, it also outlines challenges, pitfalls, and action points for the future:
Key Challenges:
- Building an inclusive corporate culture
- People-centered leadership with a focus on feminine qualities
- Retention of women in the leadership pipeline
Call to Action:
- Embedding new perspectives
- Redefining the definition of success
- Breaking systemic barriers
The full report offers in-depth insights into the state of gender diversity in the financial sector. Curious about the full event recap? Read more.
May: new president and vice-president join the board
After years of close involvement and active contributions to WIFS, Diana Zandbergen and Mirelle van Gemert stepped down from the WIFS board in May. They passed the baton to Chantal Korteweg (president) and Indra Frishert (vice-president).
Want to learn more about this leadership transition? Read more here. Interested in Diana and Mirelle's reflections on their time at WIFS? Listen to the podcast here.
September: Launch of the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance & Dive In Festival
With the theme "A Sustainable Future: The Next 10 Years", the Dive In Festival provided a platform for discussions on diversity and inclusion. Keynotes from experts like Robert Baker inspired participants to create inclusive workplaces that future-proof the financial sector. The 2024 Dive In Festival took place at PGGM in Zeist. Read the full event recap here.
A highlight of the festival was the launch of the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance,
a list showcasing female leaders in the Netherlands who are committed to sustainability within the financial sector. This list, now in its fourth year, is an initiative by WIFS.
The nominees for the Top 50 are driving greater sustainability in the financial sector and have demonstrated significant visibility and impact in this area. This year, the expert jury—including Marguerite Soeteman-Reijnen (Chair), Cindy van Oorschot, Nicolette Loonen, Faisal Setoe, Stephan Veen, and Rinke Zonneveld—placed particular value on candidates working pragmatically on financial solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation, nature conservation and restoration, and human rights.
Nominees include, amongst others, Geraldine Leegwater (PGGM), Jacqueline van den Ende (Carbon Equity), and Solange Rouschop(ABN AMRO). Discover the full 2025 Top 50 here.
November: Ties & Allies
On Thursday 21 November, WIFS and Robeco organised "Ties and Allies" - an inter-company workshop to openly reflect on and share best practices in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).
Representatives from Van Lanschot Kempen, ABN AMRO, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Robeco and WIFS discussed their current priorities, successes and challenges. Also, they did a deep dive into the topics of recruitment, allyship, retention and creating inclusive cultures.
The exchange provided for an opportunity to learn from each other and for inspiration to take on board in their respective organisations to strengthen DEI policies and practices.
November: Toedreding van het eerste mannelijke bestuurslid van WIFS
In November 2024, Henk Jansen succeeded Coby-Wilma van Essen as Treasurer of WIFS. With his appointment, we not only welcome an experienced professional but also mark a significant milestone: Henk is the first male board member in the history of WIFS.
