From Fintech Founder to FTSE 250 Board Leader: Reflections for International Women’s Day

For International Women’s Day, we invited one of our clients, Gemma Godfrey to share reflections on her career journey – from investment management to fintech founder to FTSE 250 board leader. She offered thoughtful insights on the moments that shaped her path, the principles that guide her, and the advice she gives to women stepping into leadership today.

Her story is a reminder that careers rarely follow straight lines, and that the moments that shape us often come from stepping into the unfamiliar.

Here’s what Gemma shared about her career, leadership and lessons learned…

What has your career journey looked like, from your early roles through to the work you do today?

I started my career in investment management before founding a digital wealth business that was later acquired by a global insurer.

Today I’m an FCA-approved Chair, FTSE 250 Non-Executive Director and Strategic Adviser, working with boards, private equity and leadership teams on growth, digital transformation and complex change in regulated markets.

What was the key moment or experience that most shaped your development as a leader?

Founding and leading my own fintech business through acquisition and integration was a defining experience. It took me from strategy into full operational leadership – managing regulation, technology, customers and investors at the same time.

Moving into board roles gave me a broader perspective on governance, capital allocation and long-term value creation.

What advice would you give to women who are stepping into leadership roles or aspiring to progress into them?

Stay close to the customer – they’re your real boss.

At the same time, stay curious about how your industry is evolving, especially with technologies like AI. Leaders who understand both customer needs and technological change are the ones who create real commercial impact.

What is one thing you wish you had understood earlier in your career that would have helped shape your path?

That careers are portfolios, not ladders.

Some of the most valuable experiences in my career – founding a company, moving into board roles, working with private equity – came from decisions that didn’t look obvious at the time, but built a much broader strategic perspective.

Leadership grows when we share what we’ve learned.

Celebrating women who lead with purpose, create opportunity, and open doors for others…