To celebrate Women’s World Banking’s 45th anniversary, we are showcasing the voices of individuals from around the world who have shaped and touched Women’s World Banking journey since its inception in 1979 at Commission on the Status of Women to today!
These are stories from across Women’s World Banking’s reach from the women we serve and our customers, to allies and women in leadership who have contributed to women’s economic empowerment and financial inclusion.
As Women’s World Banking marks 45 years of championing financial inclusion for women, it’s impossible to overlook the pivotal contributions of Tom Jones, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. Over the past 15 years, Tom has not only played a critical role in shaping the organization’s trajectory but also embodied the spirit of those who bring its mission to life every day. His tenure serves as a testament to the transformative power of leadership dedicated to women’s economic empowerment.
A serendipitous start
Tom’s journey with Women’s World Banking began, as he describes it, through a “serendipitous accident.” At the end of a tenure with another economic development organization, he was approached by a recruiter. Though unexpected, the opportunity to expand his focus from local to global economic development, with an emphasis on women’s empowerment, arrived at precisely the right moment in his career.
“The moment I realized this was an opportunity to work in global economic development while underscoring women’s empowerment, I knew it was something special,” Tom reflects. “It was the challenge I needed at that point in my life.” From the outset, his goal was clear: to help Women’s World Banking become the thriving, impactful organization it was destined to be.
A purpose-driven leader
Tom’s 15-year journey has been rooted in his passion for creating environments where others can thrive. “When I joined the organization, I realized I had a purpose—to create a foundation that allowed others to succeed,” he explains. This purpose fueled his early work in building a robust organizational framework that supported the mission while fostering a culture of commitment and engagement.
For Tom, the turning point came two years into his tenure. “At that point, we were at a team-building offsite,” he recalls. “We lined up according to our tenure at Women’s World Banking, and I found myself right in the middle. On one side were legacy team members who had laid the groundwork, and on the other were new employees eager to contribute. That moment symbolized the perfect balance of experience and fresh energy, giving me the confidence that we were on a path to thrive and grow.”
A legacy of impact
One of Tom’s most significant contributions has been his ability to translate the organization’s mission into tangible impact. Under his leadership, Women’s World Banking has evolved into a thriving business, combining the heart of a nonprofit with the operational rigor of a for-profit entity. “My goal was to help us transition from being solely a charitable organization to becoming a thriving charitable business,” he says. This transformation has allowed the organization to scale its impact and reach more women worldwide.
Tom’s leadership style is characterized by his deep empathy and respect for the women the organization serves. Meeting low-income women who work tirelessly to care for their families and communities left an indelible mark on him.
“Once you have the opportunity to look into the lives of these women, you develop a profound respect that humbles you. It made me realize I have an obligation to serve them.”
Cultivating a mission-driven culture
Beyond his strategic contributions, Tom has been instrumental in fostering a culture of passion and commitment within Women’s World Banking. “What keeps everyone here engaged is the unique sense of purpose and dedication that you don’t often see in other organizations,” he says. His ability to inspire and mobilize teams has been a cornerstone of the organization’s success.
Tom’s fondest memories are deeply intertwined with the people he has worked alongside. “The talent and passion of the team at Women’s World Banking are extraordinary,” he notes. “Every person here is committed to the mission in a way that’s truly special.”
Looking ahead
As Women’s World Banking celebrates its 45th anniversary, Tom’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated leadership can have on an organization and the communities it serves. His 15 years of service have not only shaped the organization’s present but have also laid the groundwork for its future.
Reflecting on his journey, Tom expresses gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful mission. “I’ve learned to love the mission and understand how critical it is,” he says. “Looking back, I feel privileged to have played a part in making finance work for women.”
As the organization continues its work to empower women worldwide, Tom’s legacy serves as an enduring inspiration and strong male ally. He calls on his male peers, “If you’re a man, recognize that from a place of privilege we now have the opportunity to create opportunity for others.” His story is a celebration of the people behind the mission—those who dedicate their careers to creating a world where women can achieve financial independence and thrive.
To close out his feature during the “giving season,” Tom promises that “Your gifts, your investments will be treated with the greatest of intentions, the greatest of scrutiny, and the strongest of commitments.” He asks, “Help us make finance work for women.”
Women’s World Banking is dedicated to economic empowerment through financial inclusion for the nearly one billion women in the world with no or limited access to formal financial services. Using our sophisticated market and consumer research, we turn insights into real action to design and advocate for policy engagement, digital financial solutions, workplace leadership programs, and gender lens investing.
As part of our current strategy, we’ve helped provide 82 million women in emerging markets – targeting 100 million by 2027 – access and use of financial products and services that are transforming women’s lives, households, businesses and communities, and driving inclusive growth globally.
Help us reach the nearly billion women still excluded from the formal financial system. Donate now.
