Not only is managing director Grace Wang fully committed to her day job, which involves developing a global sales platform, but she also leads an effort to empower women in the J.P. Morgan workplace.

Wang exemplifies the proactive employees favoured by the investment firm in its recruitment practices.

Since joining J.P. Morgan, the Harvard University MBA graduate has served as head of international strategy and EMEA chief financial officer for the company’s corporate investment bank.

“The women who work at J.P. Morgan have told us in their own words - and proven through their success – that they can provide inspiration for everyone around them,” the company says.

“They are top performers in our organization, who bring a unique skill set to every aspect of their work.”

Wang, a mother of two, has coordinated teams across multiple countries to assess the bank’s capabilities and opportunities to expand its international footprint.

“The bank has provided me with excellent opportunities and a truly thrilling career so far,” Wang said.

Before turning to finance, she was a management consultant, worked for a startup and was a journalist.

“J.P. Morgan leaves no stone unturned when they’re looking for talent” she said. “Not all employees necessarily have just a finance degree or only banking.”

Wang was nominated in the business category. The judging panel will meet over the coming weeks to decide winners for each of 11 categories, and they will be announced in London on May 15.

The Asian Women of Achievement Awards, co-founded by Pinky Lilani in 1999 and held in association with The Royal Bank of Scotland, recognise women who make significant contributions to business, entrepreneurship and social and humanitarian work.

Lilani is an Indian cookery specialist, consultant and owner of Spice Magic Ltd. She received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2007.      
                                      
Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Princess Badiya of Jordan are patrons of the awards.