Since joining from the National Economic Crime Centre in 2021, Sarah Pritchard has become one of the most important executives at the Financial Conduct Authority.
As executive director for markets and international, she is fronting work on everything from the future of UK capital markets rules and crypto promotions to de-banking and liability-driven investment funds to ensure the integrity of markets.
She is part of a new-look top team at the watchdog that has now reached gender parity.
As Financial News prepares to reveal our list of the 100 Most Influential Women in Finance next Monday, we ask the former Dechert lawyer and HSBC compliance team head for a few words on how she made it to the top, and how to stay there.
What was your first big break?
My first big break into financial services was when I moved from security/law enforcement into a senior role in banking – taking on responsibility for global anti-bribery and corruption for a big global bank, then taking on additional responsibility for reputational risk too after I joined.
My boss was brilliant – he saw the skills and leadership I could bring, and gave me opportunities to thrive, even though I had not worked directly in banking before.
Who do you consider a professional role model and why?
My career has been pretty varied to date – across the public/regulatory sector and private sector – and as a lawyer and non-lawyer.
READHow to access FN’s 100 Most Influential Women in Finance list
There is no one role model I have as I have worked with so many over the last 25 years. There are four specific bosses who have inspired me though. They are all people who have seen my skills and believed in me, they have all pushed me to progress. One, who died aged 42 on his way to work on a Monday morning, continues to shape who I am.
He was a brilliant leader and lawyer. He could solve the most difficult of problems while remaining down to earth, and his death so young is a reminder of the importance of living a fulfilling life, and enjoying work, friends and family, while you can.
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What one piece of advice do you have for women in the City?
Believe in yourself and be yourself.
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FN's 100 Most Influential Women for 2023 list will be published on 16 October here.
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To contact the author of this story with feedback or news, email Justin Cash
