Vanessa Vallely

Vanessa Vallely has become a leading light in empowering women and encouraging diversity in the workplace across the globe. Founder of leadingwomen’s network and website, www.wearethecity.com she also co-founded the City wide diversity network, The Network of Networks, which includes diversity heads from 45 FTSE firms.

With a career in banking and finance spanning 22 years including Chief Operating Officer, Vanessa was awarded the “Champion for Women” award at the 2011 Women in Banking and Finance awards and was recognized as one of the 100 most influential Women in Finance for 2011. Vanessa has also received her first global award from TIAW, where she was named as one of 100 Women making a global difference.

An accomplished motivational speaker, Vanessa frequently appears on TV, radio & in media discussions, speaking around the world about diversity, empowerment, mentoring and female networks. She is considered as the most connected woman in the city. A passionate charity fundraiser and volunteer with her family, in 2012 ran her first London marathon and continues to raise money in her role as a Pearly Queen of the City of London