On the eve of International Women’s Day on March 8, it’s the perfect time to highlight the achievements and contributions of women in the finance industry. This year’s theme encourages us to recognise the progress made while continuing to push for equality, representation, and leadership opportunities for women in business. #IWD25
One such leader paving the way is Vicky Rose, CFO of Optimum Finance. With over 20 years of experience across diverse sectors including finance, retail, manufacturing and distribution. A key figure in Optimum’s growth story, Vicky has built a career working in high-growth environments, with a broad scope in her current role that requires adaptability, alongside strategic leadership. She is a firm advocate for diversity in financial services and is passionate about supporting women in business.
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In this exclusive Q&A with Alejandro Gonzalez, editor of Leasing Life, Rose shares insights on her career journey, the importance of diversity in leadership, and her advice for women looking to break into the world of invoice financing. Her story serves as a reminder that with the right support, ambition, and opportunities, women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Alejandro Gonzalez (AG): How has your past experience influenced your role at Optimum Finance?
Vicky Rose (VR): My career began with an Accounting and Finance degree from Swansea Metropolitan University, this was followed by 15 years working in South Wales across retail, manufacturing and distribution. Looking to relocate, I was offered a position that started my journey within financial services in 2019, this led me to Optimum Finance in May 2021.
My position at Optimum is my first within the invoice finance sector, however during my career, I have worked in businesses that rely on invoice financing for their cash flow needs, it’s been great to apply that knowledge on ‘the other side of the fence.’ I understand the needs and commercial drivers of our client base.
With broad sector experience, I can bring a diverse perspective to the industry. Being the CFO at Optimum, I can use my expertise to drive strategic growth and support SMEs with the funding they need to succeed. Invoice finance can help support SME cashflow, enabling growth and job creation.
AG: How important is diversity and inclusion at Optimum?
VR: It’s absolutely vital! I’m incredibly passionate about women working in leadership positions and I’m very proud that at Optimum Finance our Senior Leadership Team is 60% women. Having women at board level and in leadership positions is incredibly important for representation and progress.
It is a great time to be a woman in any area of business, there are more opportunities than ever. I constantly remind myself how significant it is to represent other women at a senior leadership level. The landscape for women in finance has improved dramatically – firms are now much more progressive, offering better opportunities.
As a woman in finance, I’ve learned to juggle multiple responsibilities, and I appreciate the strengths women bring to the industry. A well-rounded workforce benefits everyone, and women contribute unique skills and perspectives. Balancing work and family life is crucial and it is something I am continually striving to get right!
AG: Why is it important to celebrate International Women’s Day as a woman in finance?
VR: International Women’s Day is a time to recognise the incredible contributions women make across all industries, and finance is no exception. Historically, finance has been a male-dominated sector, but we’ve seen significant progress in breaking down barriers and increasing representation at all levels.
Celebrating International Women’s Day is important because it serves as both a reflection of how far we’ve come and a reminder of the work still to be done. Visibility is crucial – when women see others succeeding in leadership roles, it inspires confidence and ambition. It’s about ensuring the next generation of female finance professionals know that they belong here, that they have a voice and I am proud to be a part of that.
Having more women in leadership creates a more balanced, inclusive, and forward-thinking industry. Events like International Women’s Day allow us to amplify these conversations, support one another, and continue pushing for meaningful change.
AG: What advice would you give to other women looking to enter invoice financing?
VR: If you’re curious about invoice financing, don’t hesitate – jump in and explore the opportunities! This industry is dynamic, rewarding and offers a unique chance to work closely with businesses, helping them navigate cash flow challenges and growth. As my experience shows, skills from other industries and sectors are very transferrable to invoice financing.
I would suggest starting by gaining hands-on experience through internships or shadowing professionals in the field. Seeing the real-world impact of invoice financing can help you decide whether this path is right for you. If you enjoy problem-solving, financial strategy, and working with diverse businesses, this could be the perfect career.
It’s also important to know that you don’t necessarily need a finance degree to succeed. Many people enter the industry from different backgrounds, bringing valuable skills from retail, sales, or operations. I did just that. The key is to develop a solid understanding of financial processes and to be eager to learn.
Women bring unique strengths to the world of finance; strong relationship-building, attention to detail, and a strategic mindset. So, if you’re thinking about finance, go for it! Surround yourself with mentors, ask questions, and step confidently into a field that has so much to offer.
