Ruth Leas
About Ruth Leas
Ruth Leas serves as the CEO of Investec Bank Plc, where she has led significant transformations within the company since 2019. She is one of the few female CEOs in the FTSE 250 index and actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the financial sector.
Work at Investec
Ruth Leas has held multiple roles at Investec, currently serving as the CEO of Investec Bank Plc since 2019. In this capacity, she has led the transformation of the bank by simplifying its operations and exiting certain geographies and activities. Prior to her role as CEO, she was the Chief Risk Officer from 2017 to 2019, where she was responsible for overseeing risk management strategies. Additionally, she has served as an Executive Director since 2016, contributing to the bank's strategic direction for over eight years.
Education and Expertise
Ruth Leas has a strong academic background, having studied at the University of Cambridge, where she achieved an M. Phil at Trinity Hall from 1996 to 1997. She also holds a BA (cum laude) Hons in Economics from the University of the Witwatersrand, obtained from 1990 to 1994. Her expertise includes derivative structuring and sales, which she gained before relocating to London in 2002. Additionally, she has been involved in advisory roles, sitting on the Cambridge Judge Business School Advisory Board.
Background
Ruth Leas began her career in finance with a focus on derivative structuring and sales. She moved to London in 2002, where she continued to build her expertise in the financial sector. In 2004, she was appointed Co-Head of US Principal Finance, concentrating on credit derivatives and structured credit. Her career trajectory reflects a commitment to advancing in the financial services industry, particularly in risk management and strategic leadership.
Achievements
Ruth Leas is recognized as one of only nine female CEOs in the FTSE 250 index, highlighting her role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the financial services sector. She has also been awarded the Gold Medal of the Economics Society of South Africa for the best Economics Honours Thesis in South Africa. Beyond her corporate roles, she actively supports educational initiatives through her involvement with NGOs such as The Women’s Association, Arrival Education, and Morpeth School, aimed at helping students develop skills for careers in finance.