The Leasing Foundation has announced the return of its women’s spotlight series, which begins on 2 March 2026, alongside the launch of its new gender programme.
These activities will run throughout March, coinciding with International Women’s Day on 8 March and Women’s History Month, reinforcing the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and progress across the asset finance industry.
Women’s Spotlight Series
Now in its third year, the women’s spotlight series has become a firm fixture in the industry calendar. Throughout March, the Foundation will publish a daily spotlight on an exceptional woman working in the sector, sharing her thoughts, lessons learned and advice for others. The initiative has grown year on year, creating a strong and supportive community of participants who continue to nominate others and pay the recognition forward.
Gender Programme Launch Event – Moments That Matter
Date: Tuesday 17 March 2026
Time: 5.30 – 7.30pm
Venue: Shoosmiths, 5th Floor, 1 Bow Churchyard, London EC4M 9DQ
The gender programme, driven by Becki Barrett (Interbay Asset Finance), Isara Cotton (Lombard) and Hayley Lawrence (Grenke), is designed to create space for shared learning, honest conversation and meaningful progress. It sets out to build a picture of lived experiences in our industry, including the sometimes difficult or uncomfortable topics. The launch event will bring together professionals from across the sector to reflect on the moments, decisions and experiences that shape careers and workplace cultures.
This is about creating space for honest conversations, supporting career development and making sure progress is something we build together, not just talk about
The evening will include networking and plans for the year ahead, including a mentoring programme and the development of a shared knowledge bank. Shanika Amarasekara, CEO of the FLA, will share her ‘moments that mattered’, followed by round-table discussions to encourage conversation and practical ideas.
The launch event is open to all genders, with attendees encouraged to bring colleagues to ensure a balanced and constructive conversation. Registration is required and spaces are limited. More information here.
Throughout March, the Leasing Foundation’s EDI group will also publish thought leadership pieces and practical resources focused on gender, with contributions from members of the community and wider industry voices.
Helena Thernstrom, EDI Lead of the Leasing Foundation, said: “Over the past few years we have seen how powerful it is when people share their stories. 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.”