WIBF Launches First Northern Ireland Conference

The Women in Banking & Finance (WIBF) organization is launching its first conference in Northern Ireland on November 10. The event, WIBF Live, will take place at Riddel Hall, Queen’s University Belfast. It aims to bring together 300 professionals from the region’s financial and professional services sector.

The conference program includes inspiring speakers, practical insights, and networking opportunities. Aimee Connolly, founder and CEO of the international makeup brand Sculpted by Aimee, is scheduled to speak. The event will also feature BBC presenter Claire McCollum as moderator. The conference theme is “Lift, Lead, Level Up,” focusing on career development, leadership, and future opportunities.

WIBF Conference Focuses on Leadership and Networking

WIBF, a London-based organization operating since 1980, supports members across various financial sectors. These include banking, fintech, insurance, investment, accountancy, law, and wealth management. The organization has eight regional bases across the UK. Its membership comprises professionals from major firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, Citi, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, British Business Bank, and Royal London.

The inaugural Belfast conference is designed to strengthen the pipeline of future talent. It will welcome up to 300 delegates from diverse fields, including banking, financial services, law, technology, entrepreneurship, and education. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will conclude with a networking reception. Headline sponsor for the conference is Progressive Building Society. Key sponsors include Queen’s University Belfast School of Business, Upstream ABL, and The Mortgage Shop.

The conference aims to explore pivotal moments that shape careers, inspire leadership, and create opportunities for future generations. This focus on empowering women in the financial sector aligns with broader initiatives aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs and leaders. For instance, the Women in Business organization has also set a November date for its leadership conference.

Supporting Women in Business and Entrepreneurship

Beyond the WIBF conference, other events highlight the growing support for women in business and entrepreneurship. The Agriculture Businesses Get New Support for Women Entrepreneurs initiative aims to bolster women in the agricultural sector. Additionally, the CONAF plans to launch a new barometer to track how Women Entrepreneurs Access Finance. These efforts underscore a commitment to enhancing opportunities and resources for women in various business fields.

The importance of networking alongside financial access for women entrepreneurs is also a key discussion point. Authors argue that Women Entrepreneurs Need Networks Alongside Credit. Events like the Batam Forum aim to connect women entrepreneurs with potential business partners, facilitating growth and collaboration, as seen in the Batam Forum Connects Women Entrepreneurs With Business Partners.

Mentorship also plays a crucial role, with advice from mentors being turned into actionable business plans. This was highlighted in the context of how Women Entrepreneurs Turn Mentor Advice Into Business Plans. The WIBF conference in Belfast is expected to provide a similar platform for professional development and mentorship within the financial services industry.

For more information and to register for the WIBF NI conference, individuals can visit https://www.wibf.org.uk/events/wibf-ni-conference-lift-lead-level/.

The conference is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be followed by a networking reception. This event is a significant step in fostering professional development and connections for women in the financial and professional services sector across Northern Ireland.