Bank of England Finance Chief Afua Kyei Named UK's Most Influential Black Person

Afua Kyei, the finance chief and executive director of the Bank of England, has been named the UK’s most influential black person on the 2026 Powerlist, which recognizes prominent Britons of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage. Kyei is responsible for overseeing the financial governance of the Bank’s £1 trillion balance sheet and directing its quantitative easing program, playing a central role in the UK's economic strategy. She joined the Bank of England in 2019 after senior roles at Barclays and UBS, and her leadership highlights the importance of diversity and representation in finance. Kyei emphasizes that the accolade is about visibility and possibility, inspiring young people to see themselves in leadership roles they might not have previously imagined. Her recognition replaces tech CEO Dean Forbes at the top of the Powerlist and is accompanied by notable figures such as former footballer Ian Wright and makeup artist Dame Pat McGrath. Kyei’s personal background, shaped by immigrant parents and her own academic achievements, underscores her commitment to encouraging young talent and fostering inclusion in the financial sector.