Chinwe Uzoho’s journey in the finance industry began with a solid foundation in Economics. From a young age, she was inspired by her late father, who was a banker. His career left a lasting impression on her, shaping her aspirations and leading her into the world of banking. After earning her degree, she followed in his footsteps, embarking on a career that would span over 25 years in various roles within the financial sector. At EliteX, we are proud to have Chinwe Uzoho as part of the edition: Prominent Women in Finance, 2025.
Chinwe Uzoho | Regional Managing Director, West & Central Africa | Network International
Over the years, she gained extensive experience in different areas of finance, including back-office operations, investment banking, product development, and retail banking. Her commitment to continuous learning led her to pursue an MSc in Global Consumer Marketing and an MBA from Bangor Business School. She further enhanced her expertise with a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Payments and Transformation and completed the Advanced Management Program (AMP) at Harvard Business School. Additionally, she attended numerous other courses and training programs to stay ahead in the evolving financial landscape. After a fulfilling career in banking, she transitioned into the financial technology space, leveraging her vast industry knowledge to drive innovation and collaborate with key stakeholders.
“Be intentional about your career progression—your growth is in your hands.”
As a woman in finance, she faced several challenges, especially in the earlier years of her career. Initially, she believed that success required her to be a “superwoman,” but she soon realized that this was an unrealistic expectation. The barriers women face come in various forms, including self-doubt, societal expectations, organizational structures, and cultural biases. Many hesitate to step forward, fearing failure or criticism, and often take a backseat rather than asserting themselves.
However, the narrative is shifting. More women are stepping into leadership positions, proving that success is built on hard work, experience, and knowledge. For her, the turning point was recognizing her professional worth and embracing continuous learning and self-improvement. She understood that her career was her own race, and she was in control of setting the pace and achieving her goals. Celebrating successes, learning from mistakes, and standing firm in negotiating her worth have been key to overcoming challenges and making an impact in the industry. Balancing work and personal life in a demanding industry is never easy, but she believes in the concept of work-life integration rather than strict balance. Setting priorities and understanding what truly matters in both work and personal life helps create harmony. Everyone has limits, and it is essential to establish boundaries while accepting that it is impossible to be everything to everyone.
One of the most effective strategies for managing work-life integration is delegation and knowing which battles are worth fighting. Seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. She was fortunate to have a strong support system, particularly while raising her children. Building a network within and outside the organization also played a crucial role in guidance and support. Making time for personal well-being, spending moments with loved ones, and taking breaks to recharge are all essential elements of maintaining overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Throughout her career, mentorship and sponsorship have been invaluable. Having both formal and informal mentors has greatly contributed to her growth. She acknowledges the importance of having trusted advisors who can provide guidance, perspective, and encouragement. Her mentors helped her navigate challenges, analyze situations, and make strategic career decisions. She always encourages young professionals, especially women, to seek out mentors and role models early in their careers. Learning from experienced individuals not only builds confidence but also provides crucial insights for career progression.
“Seeking support is not a weakness but a strength.”
For young women aspiring to enter the finance industry, she emphasizes the importance of taking the first step without hesitation. Women in finance are no longer rare, and more opportunities are available than ever before. Having the right knowledge and skills is essential to adding value in the industry. Surrounding oneself with the right people—mentors, sponsors, and advocates—can greatly influence career growth. Additionally, networking within and outside the industry and joining professional bodies help in staying informed and connected.
Being intentional about career growth is crucial. Taking on roles that increase visibility and demonstrate capabilities is key to advancement. Continuous learning, upskilling, and positioning oneself for leadership opportunities ensure that one remains relevant and competitive. Success in the finance industry is about being proactive, assertive, and committed to professional development. The finance industry has evolved significantly for women over the past decade. Once a male-dominated sector, it now sees more women thriving due to changing workplace practices and increasing awareness of the value of gender diversity. Organizations are actively working towards inclusivity, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances creativity, productivity, and ethical business practices.
More women are obtaining professional certifications, leveraging sponsorship opportunities, and taking advantage of training programs to advance their careers. Companies are also more deliberate in recruiting and promoting women, not just for gender equality but because women bring valuable perspectives and skills that drive business success. As a result, financial institutions today foster a more collaborative and dynamic work environment. To succeed in finance today, professionals must continuously adapt to industry changes. The financial sector is evolving rapidly with technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. Cybersecurity has become a critical skill, particularly with the rise of AI, cyber threats, and fraud prevention. Data analytics is another key area, as finance is increasingly data-driven. Professionals must develop strong analytical skills to interpret and present data for strategic decision-making.
Understanding AI and its applications, such as automation, machine learning, and customer engagement, is essential for staying ahead in the industry. However, technical skills alone are not enough—soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability remain equally important. More women are now entering finance through education and expanded opportunities, and the future promises even greater representation and inclusion. She firmly believes that in the coming years, women will no longer be the minority in the field but will play an integral role in shaping its direction.
Women have already made a significant impact on the future of finance. They have taken on leadership roles as CEOs, investors, and advocates for financial inclusion and gender parity. Their contributions have helped reshape the industry, breaking barriers and setting new standards for success. The finance sector is no longer just about prestige or climbing the corporate ladder—it is about having a holistic understanding of the business, making meaningful contributions, and achieving personal fulfillment. Women in finance continue to challenge stereotypes, overcome imposter syndrome, and assert their value in the industry. Their ability to innovate, lead, and inspire has driven change, and they will continue to shape the future of finance. By reaffirming their capabilities and supporting one another, they create an environment where success is based on merit, skills, and strategic thinking rather than gender.
“My career is my own race—I set the pace, and I determine my success.”
If given the chance to change one thing about the finance industry, she believes that rather than focusing on change, professionals should focus on evolving with the industry. Adapting to new opportunities, making intentional career choices, and taking proactive steps to shape one’s career are far more important than waiting for circumstances to change. By embracing continuous growth and being intentional with career decisions, professionals can navigate the ever-changing financial landscape and achieve long-term success.