Nationwide chief executive Dame Debbie Crosbie has been appointed by the Chancellor as the new women in finance champion, replacing Aviva boss Dame Amanda Blanc when she steps down after five years in the role.

Dame Amanda hands over role on January 1 after a tenure in which female representation in senior finance positions lifted from 32% to 36%.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves praised Dame Amanda’s “exceptional leadership” over the past five years.

She said: ““When I became Chancellor, I said my time in office would be a success if more young women and girls knew there should be no ceiling on their ambition and no limit to what they can achieve.

“The Women in Finance Charter is a key tool to achieve that progress.

“I thank Amanda for her exceptional leadership over the past five years, and

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