One of the UK’s leading banking experts has given a masterclass on careers in the financial sector during a special talk at the University of Leeds.
Sarah Breeden, the Executive Director for Financial Stability Strategy and Risk at the Bank of England, outlined her personal route to success to students during the session in the Esther Simpson Building on Thursday 9 March.
The talk included her experiences in the Bank of England and as a member of the Financial Policy Committee, which is tasked by Parliament with guarding against the financial system damaging the wider economy.
The workforce of the future needs to be a diverse one. That is why making sure that we engage with as broad a set of students as possible is so crucial.
Sarah also leads the Bank of England’s work on climate change both domestically and internationally.
She discussed her career journey to date, interest rates and her experiences as a woman a typically male-dominated business environment.
She said: “The workforce of the future needs to be a diverse one. That is why making sure that we engage with as broad a set of students as possible is so crucial. I was delighted to spend time with some of the students at the University of Leeds, answering their questions and hopefully imparting some useful advice as they think about how best to start their careers.”
Students had the opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A session to help learn about future pathways.
The masterclass took part during National Careers Week - a celebration of careers guidance and free resources in education across the UK.
The visit was arranged by the University’s Student Careers and Global Opportunities team, who provide expert careers advice on next steps for students and graduates.
In addition to employer panels, the team provide career coaching, mentoring, workshops, careers fairs and alumni talks, giving students access to a wide variety of careers resources to develop skills, build expertise and become global citizens.
Professor Annina Kaltenbrunner of Global Economics at Leeds University Business School, said: “Sarah’s session today really highlighted the fundamental role of the Bank of England in key areas of economic policy and how emergent risks such as those posed by climate change are being addressed by the Bank. As well as this, hearing about Sarah’s career and how she became one of the most senior central bankers globally is really inspiring for all students, and especially in an area that is historically so male dominated.”
Sarah’s talk was part of a wide range of expert visits from leading figures in their sectors, including a recent talk by Attorney General Victoria Prentis for Law students.
Professor Jeff Grabill, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Education, said: “University of Leeds students regularly benefit from visits by leading experts in their fields, such as Sarah Breeden from the Bank of England.
“These experiences and opportunities are invaluable. Our students interact with industry leaders, make incredible new contacts, and gain precious insights into the careers they wish to pursue.”
Further information
- For media enquiries please contact University of Leeds corporate communications officer Rebecca Hurrey on r.hurrey@leeds.ac.uk.
- Read more information on Student Careers and Global Opportunities at the University of Leeds.
- Get more information on opportunities to work with University of Leeds students and graduates and benefit from the new ideas, different skills and innovative thinking they can bring to your business.