As a Senior Sales Executive at Legal & General Investment Management, Sarah plays a pivotal role in supporting & managing relationships with Wealth Managers. With her expertise in promoting and selling the firm’s diverse investment products and services, Sarah's work directly contributes to the company's success. Her influence not only drives revenue but also shapes the strategic direction of her client relationships.

Sarah’s journey to this role has been anything but conventional. While she has now spent five years at Legal & General, her professional story began in an entirely different field of architecture. Armed with an undergraduate degree in architecture, Sarah initially set out to become a qualified architect. However, along the way, she discovered a passion for the world of finance and investments during her time at Smith & Williamson. It was here that her love for asset management and client relationships blossomed, igniting a career that would see her thrive in the fast-paced world of sales.

Born and raised in South-east London, Sarah speaks fondly of her upbringing in a diverse community. She has a rich dual heritage, with a Nigerian father and an Ethiopian mother, and grew up in an environment where diversity and new experiences were the norm. Her unique background offered her a broad perspective on cultural differences, enriching her worldview. Sarah’s working-class roots have instilled in her a fierce drive to excel, not only for herself but also to pave the way for future generations. She takes pride in having risen from humble beginnings and sees this as a key element that has shaped her ambition and leadership style.

However, Sarah’s rise to success was not without its challenges, early on she often found herself navigating the complexities of the corporate world, though at times daunting, provided opportunities for personal growth and ultimately strengthened her resolve. Her family and personal community may not have provided direct guidance in the business world, but they gave her something even more valuable: a strong sense of self-worth, determination, and an unwavering commitment to staying true to her values. These traits have empowered Sarah to set boundaries, navigate adversity, and build her career on her own terms.

One of the most demanding aspects of Sarah’s role is balancing technical expertise, internal networking, and building a strong external presence. Over the years, she has worked diligently to refine her skills, master the intricacies of investment products, and nurture relationships across and outside her team. Sarah is acutely aware of the potential challenges and perceptions she may face as a Black Woman who has taken a non-traditional route into industry; however this understanding drives her to continuously go above and beyond to prove her value and expertise, ensuring she’s always prepared when new opportunities arise.

Sarah has made it her mission to reject external pressures and expectations associated with gender & race, choosing instead to see her identity as a source of strength. She has worked tirelessly to flip the narrative, turning what some might see as a challenge into her greatest asset. Sarah views her identity as a superpower that enhances her ability to connect with others, lead authentically, and inspire those following similar non-traditional paths.

Sarah credits her growth to key supporters and mentors, these relationships have provided her with the guidance and advocacy necessary to thrive. Sarah is deeply committed to paying this forward, mentoring others and sharing her story with those aspiring to enter the investment industry. She believes that as more diverse stories are told, they will help redefine the status quo and make the industry more inclusive.

For Sarah, the importance of connections and relationships extends beyond her immediate role; they are central to her legacy as a leader. When she thinks about diversity, it’s not just about race or gender but about the diversity of thought and behaviour. Sarah envisions a future where interconnectedness between people and businesses is a given, and where diverse voices are heard at every level.

Looking ahead, Sarah is excited about continuing to grow her external profile and transitioning into a fully client-facing role where she can own relationships and bring in new business. She recognises that her authenticity and external presence are not only a reflection of her personal brand but also a small way that Legal & General can showcase their values to clients. More importantly, by being visible and sharing her story, Sarah hopes to inspire others and demonstrate the possibilities for those seeking to break into the industry from unconventional backgrounds.