Wells Fargo’s Yinka Baruwa shares her career journey and efforts to champion racial equality and foster inclusion in the finance industry, alongside her main role as a Credit Portfolio Manager.
With over a decade of experience, Yinka manages a $2 billion commercial portfolio across 15 countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Her expertise in portfolio management, credit risk and programme governance, highlights her capability to handle complex global operations. Beyond finance, Yinka is a strong advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). She co-chairs Wells Fargo’s EMEA Black Connections group and plays a key role in the EMEA Diversity and Inclusion Council.
As the finalist of this year’s Black British Awards, her work in championing racial equality and creating inclusive spaces is a testament to her unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change in the corporate world. Check out the full interview below.
Fair Play Talks: Can you briefly tell us about your career journey to date?
Yinka Baruwa: My career journey began in an unexpected place – geology; before I pivoted into Banking and Finance. I initially enjoyed studying geology because it was a combination of science, data and analysis, which are areas I have a strong interest in. However, I realised after graduation that the Banking and Finance sector offered similar opportunities to problem solve but with broader real-world applications and opportunities. Banking allowed me to explore a variety of roles from Retail Bank management in the early stages of my career to Corporate Banking Relationship Management and everything in between.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve developed a diverse skill set across credit risk management and governance roles in commercial and corporate banking sectors. Currently, as a Credit Portfolio Manager I manage risk for a varied portfolio across EMEA, navigating complex financial environment. I’ve been able to apply my love for data-driven decision-making. The dynamic nature of Banking and Finance has also appealed to my desire for continuous learning and challenge. It’s been the perfect blend of analytical thinking and problem-solving across different contexts.
Fair Play Talks: What specific challenges have you encountered along the way?
Yinka Baruwa: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been finding the right balance between work and personal life, especially as I progressed into more demanding roles. I’ve always had a very strong work ethic, so it was easy for me to get absorbed in my work without much consideration of the long-term impact on my wellbeing or personal life. However, I realised that true job satisfaction for me comes from having a healthy balance. Creating those boundaries was not easy on a personal level as I’d been working at my peak for several years, it was a battle with myself to make time for the people and things I love in my personal life.
Understanding and navigating workplace dynamics while building credibility in high-stakes environments can be demanding. However, I have learnt to balance the intense demands of my role with my personal life. This requires resilience and careful prioritisation. Finding this balance means I’m able to show up as my most authentic self and give 100% to the work that I love without impacting my personal life.
Fair Play Talks: In your industry, are there any specific challenges that Black professionals face on their career journeys that other groups of people do not encounter?
Yinka Baruwa: I can speak to my experience as a Black woman in a predominantly male and white industry, I’ve faced challenges related to representation and unconscious bias. There have been times when I have felt the need to prove myself more than others, and although this motivated me to excel in my career, the downside to that was the feeling of ‘imposter syndrome’ and burnout. The lack of representation, especially in senior roles, can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstanding and a lack of mentorship opportunities for black professionals. There is, however, a growing strong network of Black professionals in the finance industry in London, and I’ve definitely felt more of a ‘community’ in the last few years. More representation can help bridge the gap needed to tackle unconscious bias and stereotypes of black people in the workplace.
Fair Play Talks: Are you involved in promoting Black talent, race equality or other diversity initiatives?
Yinka Baruwa: Yes, I am actively involved in promoting Black talent and race equality within my company. I serve on the Wells Fargo EMEA Diversity and Equity Council and I am the Team Member Outcomes Chair for the Wells Fargo EMEA Black Connections group. Additionally, I lead our company’s EMEA Reciprocal Mentoring Program, which has successfully engaged over 60 participants across the region in the last three years. Through these roles, I’m committed to driving meaningful change by fostering an inclusive environment and supporting the development of Black professionals within the industry.
Fair Play Talks: In your opinion, are companies doing enough to stamp out discrimination and what more could they be doing to promote racial equity in the workplace?
Yinka Baruwa: While I think most companies have made progress in addressing discrimination, there’s still much more to do. Many organisations have implemented diversity initiatives, but these efforts often lack depth and long-term commitment. To promote true racial equity, companies need to focus on creating inclusive cultures, holding leadership accountable, and ensuring equal opportunities for advancement. This includes increasing transparency in hiring and promotion processes, offering robust mentorship programmes, and addressing unconscious bias through continuous training. Additionally, fostering open dialogues about race and actively supporting underrepresented employees are crucial steps toward meaningful change.
Fair Play Talks: Given the focus on diverse talent, what more can organisations do to attract and retain Black/minority talent?
Yinka Baruwa: To attract and retain Black and minority talent, organisations should expand outreach through targeted internships and apprenticeships that provide early exposure to the industry. Collaborating with local schools and universities to spotlight rising talent is key, as is creating programs that guide students from education to employment. Companies can host career workshops, sponsor scholarships, and build relationships with Black professional networks to attract diverse talent. Retention efforts should focus on inclusive workplace cultures, mentorship, and clear career progression paths. By investing in development from the ground up, organisations can foster a seamless transition for Black talent into long-term roles.
Fair Play Talks: What was your reaction when you heard that you are one of the 2024 Black British Business Awards (BBBAwards) finalists?
Yinka Baruwa: I definitely had a “Wait, who me?” moment! It was a mix of disbelief, excitement, and sheer gratitude. I feel incredibly humbled to be recognised among such talented and inspiring individuals. Honestly, I had to pinch myself, it was also a much-needed pause for me to take in how far I’ve come and what I’ve achieved in my career so far. I am also so grateful for the community behind me, from my colleagues to my friends and family, reliving the excitement with each of them has created memories I will forever cherish. This recognition means the world to me. I’m honoured to represent the hard work and passion that has gone into my journey.
Fair Play Talks: How important are awards and organisations like the BBBAwards in promoting Black/minority talent and Black role models?
Yinka Baruwa: Awards and organisations like the BBBAwards are crucial in promoting Black and minority talent. They shine a spotlight on achievements that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing much-needed (and deserved!) recognition and validation. These platforms elevate Black role models, offering visible examples of success that inspire others and challenge stereotypes. They also foster a sense of community, connecting like-minded professionals and opening doors to opportunities. By celebrating excellence and showcasing diverse stories, the BBBAwards help to break down barriers, encourage ambition, and drive the change needed to achieve true racial equity in the workplace.
Fair Play Talks: Last year saw the BBBAwards celebrate its 10th anniversary. What do you think organisations should be doing over the next decade to further advance the representation and careers of Black entrepreneurs and professionals?
Yinka Baruwa: Over the next decade, organisations should focus on creating sustainable pathways for Black entrepreneurs and professionals. This includes increasing investment in mentorship programmes, offering targeted funding, and ensuring equitable access to resources. To gain more exposure, companies can amplify Black voices through media partnerships, spotlight success stories, and collaborate with influential networks to reach wider audiences. Furthermore, organisations should commit to transparent diversity goals, regularly track progress, and hold leadership accountable. By fostering inclusive cultures and actively promoting Black talent, we can build a future where representation isn’t just celebrated but is the norm across all industries.
Fair Play Talks: The theme of the 2024 BBBAwards is #NEXT, marking a generational shift in the Black community and businesses, acknowledging rising stars poised to become the next generation of industry leaders and honouring those who defied the odds and fought hard to pave the way. How do you see yourself contributing to this shift and what role do you envision playing in shaping the future of your industry?
Yinka Baruwa: My career has been shaped by the mentors, advocates and allies I’ve had, and for the #NEXT generation of Black professionals in my industry I aim to continue that baton of fostering mentorship of emerging talent, advocating for diverse perspectives and driving collaborative projects with real impact. My focus will be on creating organic opportunities for growth, addressing systemic challenges unapologetically and ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued. I hope that my contributions, lead to a more equitable and forward-thinking industry that not only supports and celebrates rising stars but paves the way for them to make a lasting impact.
Check out all the finalists of this year’s BBBAwards here.
RELATED ARTICLES
How BBAaward finalist Daniel Carter is amplifying Black professional voices to drive meaningful change.
REVEALED: 2024′S BLACK BRITISH BUSINESS AWARD FINALISTS
CHECK OUT 2023’S BLACK BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS WINNERS HERE.
THE BLACK BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS (BBBAWARDS) HAVE ANNOUNCED THIS YEAR’S FINALISTS AHEAD OF THEIR 10TH ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY.
CHECK OUT 2022’S BLACK BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS WINNERS HERE.
Sign up for our newsletter
