Bank of England’s Afua Kyei Named UK’s Most Influential Black Person in 2026 Powerlist

Afua Kyei, Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England, has been named the UK’s most influential Black person, topping the 2026 Powerlist – an annual ranking that celebrates individuals of African, African-Caribbean, and African-American heritage who are making significant impact across the country.

At 43, Kyei is one of the most senior finance leaders in the UK, overseeing the financial governance of the Bank’s £1 trillion balance sheet and key funding reforms. Her recognition places her ahead of notable figures such as football legend Ian Wright, make-up artist Dame Pat McGrath, and actor Idris Elba.

Kyei, who was appointed to the Bank by former governor Mark Carney, described the honour as “incredibly humbling.” Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged that her path was shaped by determination and family values instilled by her Ghanaian parents, who came to the UK as students.

“My mother trained as a midwife and served the NHS for over 40 years, and my father built a career in the oil industry. I saw them juggle work and home life – they taught us the value of hard work and balance,” she said.

A chemistry graduate from Oxford University, Kyei later received a junior research fellowship in organic chemistry at Princeton University. Her career began in investment banking during the global financial crisis before she became Chief Financial Officer for Mortgages at Barclays Bank. She joined the Bank of England in 2019 and now plays a key role in its leadership and strategic decision-making.

Speaking about her experiences as a working mother, Kyei said: “I didn’t see many women in big leadership roles who also had families. What I love about the Bank of England is how much it supports working parents – it shows that you can lead and still have a family life.”

Kyei also used the recognition to encourage young people to consider careers in banking, saying: “You don’t need to be a mathematician or an economist. We’re looking for people with fresh perspectives and curiosity.”

She succeeds Dean Forbes, CEO of a major tech company, who topped the 2025 edition of the Powerlist.

Launched in 2007 by Powerful Media, the Powerlist aims to highlight role models for young Black Britons. Founder Michael Eboda noted the growing influence of private sector leaders in recent years, calling it “a great story of success in Britain.”