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Bank of England's finance chief Afua Kyei named most influential black Briton

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, October 23rd 2025 at 22:08 GMT by The Irish News
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Bank of England Finance Chief Afua Kyei Named Most Influential Black Briton

In a landmark recognition that underscores the growing influence of black leaders in Britain’s financial and public sectors, Afua Kyei, the Bank of England’s Finance Chief, has been named the most influential black Briton in the latest “Influential Black Britons” list. The accolade, compiled by the Sunday Times, highlights Kyei’s groundbreaking achievements and her pivotal role in shaping the UK’s economic policy.

A Trailblazing Career

Born and raised in London to Ghanaian parents, Afua Kyei’s journey to the helm of the Bank of England’s finance department is a testament to perseverance and skill. She earned a degree in economics from the University of Cambridge, followed by a master’s in public policy at Oxford. Her early career saw her working for the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and later for the European Commission, where she focused on financial regulation and fiscal policy.

In 2018, Kyei joined the Bank of England, bringing a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. In 2021, she was promoted to Finance Chief, becoming the first black woman to hold the position. The role places her at the centre of the Bank’s financial operations, overseeing budgeting, risk management, and the financial infrastructure that supports the UK’s monetary policy. She also chairs the Bank’s Financial Services and Governance Committee, guiding regulatory frameworks for banks, insurers, and fintech firms.

Impact on Policy and Diversity

Kyei’s influence extends far beyond the bank’s internal functions. She has been instrumental in the development of the UK’s digital banking strategy, championing open banking initiatives that enhance consumer choice and competition. Her work on climate finance has guided the Bank’s approach to integrating environmental considerations into its risk assessment models, aligning with the UK’s net‑zero targets.

Perhaps most significant is Kyei’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Under her leadership, the Bank of England launched a comprehensive diversity strategy, increasing representation of under‑represented groups in senior roles and implementing training programs to address unconscious bias. Her initiatives have sparked broader conversations across the UK’s financial sector about equity, inclusion, and sustainable growth.

Recognition in the Influential Black Britons List

The Sunday Times’ “Influential Black Britons” list evaluates individuals across a range of fields, including politics, business, arts, science, and media. Kyei’s inclusion at the top spot signals a shift in the UK’s narrative around leadership and representation. In the accompanying commentary, the Sunday Times described her as “a force of nature in a male‑dominated industry, with a reputation for integrity and a clear vision for the future.”

The ranking methodology weighs several factors: professional achievements, influence on policy and society, visibility, and the ability to inspire others. Kyei’s record of breaking glass ceilings, shaping economic policy, and fostering inclusive practices positioned her firmly ahead of other notable contenders such as Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, and Sir Neill Fergus, a leading climate finance expert.

A Broader Context

The Bank of England, founded in 1694, plays a pivotal role in the UK’s economic stability, setting monetary policy and ensuring the resilience of the financial system. As Finance Chief, Kyei’s responsibilities cover an array of critical functions: from overseeing the Bank’s budget to managing the risks associated with its vast financial operations. Her expertise also informs the Bank’s supervisory mandates over banks, insurers, and other financial institutions, ensuring that the UK’s financial system remains robust and adaptable in the face of global uncertainties.

Kyei’s appointment and subsequent promotion coincided with a period of intense scrutiny over the banking sector’s role in climate change, digital transformation, and post‑Brexit financial regulation. Her leadership helped navigate these challenges, ensuring that the Bank of England remained at the forefront of innovative financial governance.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, Kyei is set to continue steering the Bank’s finance strategy while advancing its commitments to sustainability and inclusion. She is slated to present a keynote address at the upcoming Global Finance Forum, where she will discuss the future of banking, the integration of green finance, and the importance of diversity in leadership.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Kyei remarked, “It is both an honour and a responsibility to be recognized in this way. My aim is to use this platform to amplify the voices of those who have traditionally been under‑represented, and to build a more inclusive and resilient financial system for all.”

Conclusion

Afua Kyei’s recognition as the most influential black Briton is more than a personal triumph; it is a milestone for the UK’s financial sector and a reflection of the country’s evolving appreciation for diverse leadership. From her early days at BEIS to her current role at the Bank of England, Kyei has consistently demonstrated how expertise, vision, and commitment to inclusion can transform institutions and inspire generations. As the UK continues to grapple with economic, social, and environmental challenges, leaders like Kyei will remain essential in guiding the nation toward a more equitable and sustainable future.