Atom Bank launches women’s network to promote inclusivity

The network will be a platform for female employees to connect, support each other, and drive positive change within the organisation.

This initiative comes as women make up 42 per cent of Atom’s workforce and 51 per cent of new hires.

The Atom Women’s Network aims to empower women within the organisation by providing a safe and supportive space to share experiences, build relationships, and develop professional networks.

It will also support career development through mentorship, skills enhancement, and advancement opportunities.

The network will work with leadership to identify and address challenges faced by women in the workplace and contribute to the development of inclusive policies and practices.

Helen Wilson, chief operating officer and executive sponsor of the network, said: “We are thrilled to launch the Atom Women’s Network, which reflects our dedication to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.

“This network will play a crucial role in fostering a culture of inclusion and ensuring that women have the support and resources they need to thrive at Atom Bank, whilst developing the next generation of female leaders from the North East.”

The network will host regular events, workshops, and discussions on topics relevant to women in the workplace.

It will also work closely with Atom Bank’s leadership to drive meaningful change.

The network has already started engaging with local organisations and educational institutions to identify potential collaboration opportunities to inspire the next generation of female FinTech leaders.

Alongside the launch of the network, three women from Atom have been recognised in the Standout 45 of the Innovate Finance Women in Fintech Powerlist 2024.

This list names exceptional women transforming the UK and global FinTech and Financial Services landscape.

The women recognised from Atom Bank are Laura Farnworth, general counsel; Leanne Judge, head of strategy implementation; and Jessica Burton, data science engineer.

Atom is actively working to increase the representation of women in the technology sector through targeted initiatives across the North East.

A key component is support of the Anne-Marie Imafidon (AMI) Women in Technology Scholarships at Durham University.

These scholarships provide financial assistance to female students from low-income backgrounds pursuing degrees in technology fields.

Atom is also a signatory of the Women in Finance Charter, a commitment by HM Treasury and signatory firms to work together to build a more balanced and fair industry for women.

The network has been launched as Atom announces its plan to move its UK HQ from The Rivergreen Centre in Durham to The Pattern Shop in Newcastle.

The Pattern Shop, an iconic heritage building in Tyneside, will serve as a hub for the digital bank, which continues to advocate flexible working practices and the success of its four-day working week.