From Finance to Building Future Leaders

Rachel Mann, Class of 2011

“There were leaders to learn from, opportunities to grow and visibility of new roles that I didn’t even know existed.”

For Rachel Mann, success in finance has never been about climbing the corporate ladder alone. Alongside building an impressive career in investment management, she has become passionate about creating opportunities for others, championing women across the financial services industry and proving that the strongest careers are built through community.

Today, Rachel is a Vice President at BlackRock and Co-Chair of the Future Leaders Network for Women in Banking and Finance (WIBF), helping the next generation of professionals build confidence, develop leadership skills and expand their networks.

Finding community in a competitive industry

After leaving LEH in 2011, Rachel built her career through leading global financial institutions including Goldman Sachs, Schroders and BlackRock. As her career developed, she realised that professional success wasn’t just about technical expertise; it was also about building meaningful relationships and learning from others. Joining women’s professional networks became a turning point.

“There were leaders to learn from, opportunities to grow and visibility of new roles that I didn’t even know existed.”

Through organisations including Women in Banking and Finance, 100 Women in Finance and the Women in Finance Group, Rachel discovered mentors, new opportunities and a supportive community that extended beyond her own organisation. The experience inspired her to give something back.

From LEH classroom to a leader in Finance

Having benefited from these networks herself, Rachel volunteered to become Co-Chair of the Future Leaders Network, drawing on the leadership skills she first developed as Deputy Head Girl and Chair of the Charity Committee at LEH.

Over the past two years, she has helped transform the network into one of the UK’s leading communities for young professionals in financial services. Membership has grown by more than 350%, while initiatives including a mentoring programme, book club and major industry events have connected hundreds of ambitious women with mentors, career opportunities and lifelong friendships.

“I was excited to pay it forward and widen my industry network.”

For Rachel, the greatest achievement isn’t measured in numbers, but in seeing members secure promotions, discover new career paths and gain the confidence to reach their potential, “It’s always a joy to witness women win.”

An LEH education takes you beyond the syllabus

Rachel believes many of the skills that have shaped her career began long before she entered the world of finance. LEH fostered leadership, teamwork and a belief that supporting others is just as important as personal achievement. Those values continue to influence the way she leads today.

“LEH promotes leadership, teamwork and inclusivity… giving you the confidence to succeed in any industry.”

Whether leading projects at BlackRock or volunteering within industry organisations, Rachel has found that collaboration, curiosity and generosity create stronger teams and better leaders.

Fearless Futures

What would Rachel’s advice be to current LEH students?

Don’t underestimate the value of building your network.

Whether you join an existing community or create one yourself, surrounding yourself with people who inspire, support and challenge you can transform your career in ways you never expect. Volunteer, stay curious and remember that helping others often becomes one of the greatest catalysts for your own growth.

Rachel’s Top Networking Tips

Find a professional community early in your career.
Volunteer to develop leadership skills.
Seek mentors, and then become one.
Build relationships, not just contacts.
Create opportunities if they don’t already exist.