Erin Lyons, Co-Head of credit research provider CreditSights, is the newest addition to the Markets Media Group’s Women in Finance Advisory Board. Markets Media spoke with Erin to discuss what it means for her to be on the Advisory Board and her personal interests.

What does it mean for you to be on the WIF Advisory Board?

I’m truly honored to join the WIF Advisory Board, where I can help amplify the message and goals of Women in Finance. After nearly 25 years in the fixed income markets, I’ve encountered numerous remarkable women who have shaped not only the markets but also the infrastructure and products within this vast space. Joining the board allows me to bring another perspective to this dynamic mix.

You’ve had a long and varied career across the credit markets — what first sparked your interest in this field?

My interest in credit markets was sparked by my family’s involvement in finance. My dad traded Treasury bonds in the 1980s, and my older brother Michael began his career in fixed income. After switching to equities, he advised me to pursue credit, highlighting how the complexities of bonds would teach me to think multi-dimensionally. Starting in credit risk, I analyzed borrowers’ health, which provided a foundation for understanding market implications. With my brother’s advice and the diverse opportunities within credit, I’ve never considered another field.

You’ve worked as an analyst, strategist, and portfolio manager on both the buy- and sell-side. How have those experiences shaped your approach to leadership?

Reflecting on my career, I see how each role has contributed to my leadership development. Analyzing credit improved my strategic thinking, requiring both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. As a portfolio manager during the financial crisis, I learned to focus on controllable factors and maintain a calm demeanor. I approach situations analytically, keeping emotions in check. This approach is evident in my leadership style, where I maintain an agile mindset. We stay grounded by our mission and goals, and when obstacles arise, we problem-solve together.

You received the Excellence in Research award at the 2024 Women in Finance Awards. What did that recognition mean to you?

Receiving the Excellence in Research award in 2024 was humbling. It was a recognition of the entire CreditSights team, who consistently put their heart and soul into being trusted partners for our credit-market clients. This award acknowledges our collective commitment to excellence and motivates us to continue delivering high-quality research.

Why do you think awards like Markets Media’s Women in Finance matter — for the individuals honored and for the industry as a whole?

Women in financial markets have made significant strides in influence, representation, and impact over the past 25 years. The Women in Finance awards offer special recognition to those who continue shaping financial markets. They also help create a legion of supporters who recognize and celebrate women’s influence in our industry, which is a significant accomplishment.

Do you have any hobbies or interests you’re passionate about outside of work?

My husband Brad and I are busy parents to three children, ages 9 to 15. I really enjoy traveling with my family and exposing them to different cultures. When I have time, I like to garden. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing the results of hard, manual work when our plants bloom each year. I feel much of the same joy when we help clients and deliver new solutions!

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Markets Media Group’s 11th-annual U.S  Women in Finance Awards, will be held in New York in November 2025.