Bianca Gould, Head of Fixed Income and Equities EMEA at BNY, won Excellence in Banking at Markets Media’s 2025 European Women in Finance Awards. We caught up with Bianca to learn more.

Bianca, what does winning the Excellence in Banking award represent for you and your team at BNY?

I’m truly honoured to receive the Excellence in Banking award, especially among such an inspiring group of shortlisted women. Sharing the evening with colleagues I deeply admire made the experience even more meaningful. Since joining BNY in March 2024, I’ve witnessed firsthand the bank’s transformative momentum under Robin Vince’s leadership and the strength of our collective achievements. This recognition feels personal, but it also reflects the broader enterprise’s ambition and progress. We’re only at the beginning of our growth story—and this award is a powerful marker of what’s to come.

Can you pinpoint a few decisive moments that shaped your career path in banking?

Several pivotal moments have shaped my career in banking. Early on, I was fortunate to learn from mentors who not only challenged me but also instilled a deep sense of resilience and purpose. Their guidance helped me navigate complex environments and build confidence in my leadership style.

A particularly defining transition was moving from cash equities into electronic trading as market dynamics evolved. Embracing that shift required adaptability and a willingness to step into unfamiliar territory – skills that have remained essential throughout my career.

More recently, taking on a broader leadership role at BNY has been both a challenge and a privilege. It has allowed me to focus on building and growing teams, driving strategic outcomes, and fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. Each role I’ve held has involved hard work, navigating uncertainty, and a commitment to continuous improvement—all of which have been instrumental in shaping my path.

What advice would you offer to young women aiming to enter or progress in the banking industry?

The banking industry continues to undergo meaningful change, and there is a growing need for diverse perspectives and leadership. Surround yourself with individuals who both challenge and support you and seek out mentors who can offer guidance—but also be a mentor to others as you grow.

There will be moments of doubt, but remember each step forward, no matter how small, contributes to a larger story. Setbacks make you stronger. Be curious and resilient, continue to challenge yourself, ensure you have a solid support network and most importantly, be true to yourself.

Who would you like to thank for their influence or mentorship throughout your career?

While I won’t name individuals! —the list is long, and they each know who they are—I remain deeply grateful to those who have shaped my journey. Many continue to be part of my life today, and I carry with me the opportunities, guidance, support, and grounding they’ve generously offered. I’m also fortunate to have built a strong network of people who’ve entered my life more recently and who continue to challenge and inspire me every day.

In your view, what core skills have been instrumental to your continued success?

Adaptability, resilience and strategic thinking have been central to my journey. The ability to navigate change with clarity and composure has allowed me to lead through complexity and uncertainty. Strategic thinking has helped me stay focused on long-term goals while balancing immediate priorities. Listening, empathising, and building trust—have been essential in fostering strong relationships and resilient teams.

A commitment to continuous learning has also played a vital role. Remaining curious and receptive to feedback has allowed me to evolve alongside the industry and support others in doing the same. I continue to challenge myself in pursuit of personal and professional growth.