In this series of ‘Emma Meets', Emma Peterson, Director of Recruit 121 Finance & Accounting Solutions, finds out more about the sponsors of the Finance Awards Wales 2026.
Finance Awards Wales is designed to recognise, attract and invest in the talented finance professionals working in Wales, showcasing the best of the best in the finance industry. In this edition, Emma Meets Iestyn Evans, CFO, Monmouthshire Building Society.
Monmouthshire Building Society is built on strong community values. What made sponsoring Finance Awards Wales feel like the right fit for you?
Monmouthshire Building Society has always existed to serve people and communities, not shareholders. Sponsoring Finance Awards Wales felt like a very natural extension of that purpose. The awards celebrate professionalism, integrity and commitment across the Welsh finance community — values that mirror our own.
We’re proud to be a Welsh mutual with deep local roots, and supporting an event that recognises talent and excellence here in Wales aligns strongly with our belief in backing people who make a positive difference, both economically and socially.
From your perspective, what does an evening like Finance Awards Wales mean for the wider Welsh business community?
Events like Finance Awards Wales are about more than trophies — they create visibility, confidence and connection across the Welsh business ecosystem. They shine a light on the depth of talent we have in Wales and reinforce the idea that you can build a highly successful finance career without leaving the country.
They also create space for people to come together, share experiences and learn from one another, which is essential for a resilient, forward‑looking business community.
Take us inside awards night — what moments tend to stay with you once the event is over?
It’s always the personal stories that stay with me. Hearing finalists talk about the challenges they’ve navigated, the teams they’ve built, or the communities they serve is incredibly powerful.
There’s also a real sense of pride in the room — pride in Welsh businesses, in professional standards, and in doing the right thing. Those moments of genuine recognition and shared celebration are what linger long after the evening ends.
I’m still not sure about the Conga though…
As an organisation that’s supported members for generations, what qualities do you admire most when you meet finalists and winners?
What consistently stands out is a combination of professionalism and purpose. The finalists and winners are technically excellent, but they’re also deeply committed to acting responsibly — to their clients, their colleagues and their communities.
That long‑term mindset, resilience in the face of change, and willingness to lead with integrity are qualities we value enormously at Monmouthshire Building Society, and it’s encouraging to see them so strongly represented across the Welsh finance sector.
As you shape Monmouthshire Building Society’s strategy for 2026, how does supporting initiatives like Finance Awards Wales align with your wider leadership priorities around growth, talent and community impact?
Our strategy is focused on sustainable growth — growth that benefits members, supports our colleagues, and strengthens the communities we serve. Supporting initiatives like Finance Awards Wales directly complements that approach.
It reinforces our commitment to developing talent, celebrating excellence, and investing in the long‑term health of the Welsh economy. Strong communities and strong institutions go hand in hand, and we see our role as helping to nurture both.
On a personal level, what makes you most proud to see Monmouthshire Building Society associated with Finance Awards Wales?
Personally, I’m proud that Monmouthshire Building Society is seen as an organisation that genuinely backs people — not just through financial services, but through our actions and partnerships.
Being associated with Finance Awards Wales reflects who we are as a mutual: rooted in Wales, committed to fairness and professionalism, and focused on making a positive, lasting contribution. That reputation matters, and it’s something our colleagues and members can be proud of.
