Women’s History Month: Spotlight on Female Leaders at Canoe Clients

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s crucial to acknowledge the trailblazing women who are not just participating in—but leading—the evolution of financial services and technology. In a sector historically defined by male leadership, these women executives are rewriting the narrative, demonstrating exceptional innovation, resilience, and strategic vision.

Recent statistics estimate: 

• Women account for only 7.69% of co-founders and 18.2% of executive committee members at FinTech companies, according to a Cambridge study conducted last year.
• Women hold 39% of financial services board director positions—but this stands at just 11% across FinTech companies.
• The UK’s gender pay gap stands at 14.9% for all industries—however, this gap significantly increases in the tech (27%) and financial services (26%).

Throughout March, in celebration of Women’s History Month, a number of our colleagues took the opportunity to interview some of the inspiring women they interact with across Canoe’s client base. To close out the celebration, we’re proud to spotlight some exceptionally talented and driven female leaders among Canoe’s clientele. 

To delve deeper into their experiences and insights in the financial services space, we’ve asked them to reflect on pivotal career moments, sharing the wisdom they’ve gathered along the way and offering advice to aspiring professionals. Here’s what they had to say:

Linda Pix | Co-Founder & Chief Relationship Officer at Integrated Advisors Network

What would you tell yourself 10 years ago?

As a Co-Founder of Integrated Advisors Network, which is celebrating its Tenth anniversary this year, I think now is a good time to reflect.

When starting a new project or business, there is sometimes a sense of fear, but believe in what you are creating and ensure you align yourself with the right people. If something does not feel right or authentic to who you are and the brand you are creating, it’s okay to take a step back. Trust your instincts! It’s OK to fail, but learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward to find the best solution and a path forward. Great things do not happen overnight, so stay focused!

Once you step outside of your comfort zone, magic happens. I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and wanted to create something that helps others be successful.

Put in the work, be brave, and keep finding ways to add value.

Learn more about Integrated Advisors Network: www.integratedadvisorsnetwork.com

Jocelyn Hillis | Director of Operations at Sunpointe Investments

What advice would you give women looking to get into this industry?

The two pieces of advice that I would share are to build partnerships and continue to adapt. So much of this industry is about fostering relationships and building partnerships. Realizing you can’t do everything in a silo is pivotal to growth, and the key is to lean on your valued partners when it matters. Partnerships are also a tool that allows you to better adapt in an everchanging industry. Having the adaptability mindset allows me to explore what is possible without the fear of change. Changing conditions allows room for innovations and new ideas; embrace that.

Learn more about Sunpointe Investments: https://sunpointeinvestments.com/ 

Elena di Blas | Risk Manager at Fondaco SGR

What’s the best advice you’ve received in your career?

“Don’t choose the place you like the most; choose the one that helps you grow the most.”

At first, it seemed obvious, but over time, I realized how true it really is. It’s easy to be drawn to a job or an environment just because it feels good or familiar, but this doesn’t always mean it’s the best place for you. The real game-changer is being in a space that pushes you, challenges you, and truly recognizes your value.

I’ve learned that comfort doesn’t always equal growth. A place you like might feel safe, but if it doesn’t push you to improve, you could end up stuck. On the other hand, being in an environment that pushes you, one that might even feel uncomfortable at times, can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Looking back, I can see that the moments I’ve grown the most were the ones where I stepped outside my comfort zone.

Learn more about Fondaco SGR: https://fondacogroup.it/

Lauren Sercu | Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Sorenson Impact Advisory

What would you tell yourself before joining the industry?

The saying “your network is your net worth” might sound cliché, but I’ve found there is genuine wisdom in these words. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve learned that the most valuable asset isn’t a skill or a credential—it’s the relationships we build along the way. These connections have been incredibly valuable, offering perspectives, support, and opportunities that have shaped my career in countless ways.

If you’re thinking about how to get started, I would simply start by asking sharp people in your network if they want to grab coffee. It is an incredible skill to pop into a coffee shop (or jump into a virtual coffee Zoom!) and have a conversation with someone you’ve never met. I like to start by asking for a 101 on the person I’m chatting with: “Who are you and how did you get to your current role?” From there, I think it is important to remember that networking is a two-way street— I always try to approach relationships with a mindset of how I can add value to others, such as sharing knowledge or making valuable introductions.

Learn more about Sorenson Impact Advisory: https://sorensonimpact.com/ 

Samantha Leandri | Managing Director, Head of Digital Business Transformation at Hamilton Lane

What leadership skills have helped you advance in your career?

A key area of focus for me has been on learning how to develop strong teams. As I’ve advanced in my career, my attention has shifted from my own individual performance to that of my teams. A key skillset for any leader, regardless of organization, is the ability to build teams with complementary skill sets who can work well together to achieve the business goals for the organization. And it doesn’t hurt if you can manage to have a little fun along the way.

Learn more about Hamilton Lane: https://www.hamiltonlane.com/en-us 

Here at Canoe, we deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with these remarkable women, and we are committed to fostering an environment where female leaders can thrive while shaping the future of finance.

Interested in hearing from even more great women? Last year, we interviewed several of our Canoe colleagues in celebration of Women’s History Month. Check out what they had to say about what it’s like to work in the fintech industry here.