Afua Kyei, the Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England, has been named the most influential Black Briton on the Powerlist 2026, marking a histo
Afua Kyei, the Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England, has been named the most influential Black Briton on the Powerlist 2026, marking a historic recognition of leadership in public finance in Britain.
The 43-year-old’s rise to the top of the Powerlist 2026 is a landmark moment for representation in British public service and finance.
As the Bank of England’s CFO and Executive Director, she oversees the financial governance of the institution’s vast balance sheet, which peaked at over £1 trillion during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her responsibilities include managing the vehicle that executes the Bank’s quantitative easing programme, a key tool in stabilising interest rates and supporting the UK economy.
Kyei’s influence extends beyond technical expertise—her leadership has become a symbol of excellence and integrity in a sector often criticised for its lack of diversity.
The Powerlist, now in its 20th year, celebrates the achievements of Britons of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage.
This year’s edition featured notable figures such as football pundit Ian Wright, beauty mogul Dame Pat McGrath, and actor Idris Elba in the top ten.
Yet it was Kyei’s quiet but powerful impact in the public sector that earned her the top spot. She expressed her delight at the recognition, saying she was “honoured that someone in the public sector and financial services is being recognised in this way,” highlighting the importance of visibility and leadership in traditionally underrepresented spaces.
Before joining the Bank of England in 2019, Kyei held senior roles at Barclays and UBS, building a career that blends global banking experience with public service commitment.
Her appointment by former governor Mark Carney signalled a strategic shift toward inclusive leadership at the central bank.
Since then, she has played a pivotal role in steering the Bank through turbulent economic periods, including the pandemic and inflationary pressures.
Her recognition on the Powerlist not only celebrates her achievements but also sets a precedent for future leaders in finance and governance.
Born to Ghanaian parents in London, Afua Kyei’s influence reaches far beyond the walls of the Bank of England.
Her story inspires young professionals, especially women and people of African heritage, to pursue careers in finance and public policy.
As the UK grapples with economic challenges and seeks inclusive growth, Kyei’s leadership offers a model of resilience, strategic thinking, and representation.
Her Powerlist accolade is not just a personal triumph—it’s a powerful statement about the evolving face of British leadership in the 21st century.
Top 10 most influential Black Britons
1. Afua Kyei – Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director, Bank of England
2. Ian Wright – Football Legend, Broadcaster & Advocate for Equity in Sport (New)
3. Dame Pat McGrath – Makeup artist/Founder, Pat McGrath Labs
4. Pamela Maynard – Chief AI Transformation Officer, Microsoft MCAPS
5. Joshua Siaw – Partner, White & Case
6. Tunde Olanrewaju – Senior Partner and Managing Partner, McKinsey & Company Europe
7. Steven Bartlett – Entrepreneur and Dragon, Dragon’s Den
8. Emma Grede – CEO and Co-Founder, Good American; Founding Partner, SKIMS
9. Idris Elba, OBE – Actor, Filmmaker, Philanthropist
10. Ije Nwokorie – Chief Executive Officer, Dr Martens PLC
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