What will the role of the Finance Director look like in the years ahead?
As businesses navigate new technologies, changing expectations and increasing demands on their finance functions, the role of the FD continues to evolve.
Our next HerFinance Circle event will bring together female finance leaders from across Yorkshire to explore what these changes mean in practice.
Taking place on Wednesday 2nd December, 5.30pm – 8.30pm at Banyan in Leeds, the evening will feature a live panel discussion, alongside plenty of opportunity for networking, drinks and a delicious festive buffet.
The FD of Tomorrow: Leading Finance in a Changing World
Today’s Finance Directors are expected to do far more than manage the numbers. They’re increasingly involved in business strategy, technology, transformation and shaping the direction of their organisations.
But what does this mean for the future of finance leadership?
Our panel will explore topics including:
- How the role of the FD is evolving
- The growing importance of commercial and strategic leadership
- The impact of technology, AI and automation on finance teams
- Leading people and managing change
- The skills and experience future finance leaders will need
Meet Our Panellists
We’re pleased to welcome two experienced finance leaders to the panel, with a third speaker to be announced shortly.
Fiona Barker – Finance Director and Transformation Specialist
An accomplished Finance Director, Fiona brings extensive experience from senior finance and transformation roles, including 11 years at Lowell, where she progressed to Director of Financial Performance. She has also held several positions at Aviva, including Head of MI, Performance & Operations.
Rachel Smith – Fractional CFO and Founder of Grow Accounting
Rachel brings a fractional finance leadership perspective to the discussion, offering insight into the evolving demands placed on senior finance professionals and the businesses they support.
Lucy Mason – Finance Director, EMEA, Farnell Global
An experienced Finance Director, Lucy brings extensive experience across professional services, retail and international organisations. She recently joined Farnell Global as Finance Director for EMEA, following three years at Turner & Townsend as Finance Director for Business Services. Previously, she held senior finance roles at Morrisons and spent ten years at PwC, progressing to Assurance Senior Manager.
The panel will be hosted by Jenny Martin, Director at Headstar.
Join Us at HerFinance Circle
Alongside the discussion, the evening provides an opportunity to connect with fellow female finance professionals from across Yorkshire in a relaxed and informal setting.
Event details
Date: Wednesday 2nd December 2026
Time: 5.30pm – 8.30pm
Venue: Banyan, 2 City Square, Leeds LS1 2ES
Tickets: £15 + VAT, including a welcome Prosecco (or soft drink) and evening buffet.
Places are limited, so click here to book your place online.
