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Private Equity Women’s Network (PWN)

Empowering women in private equity and M&A in order to foster leadership, drive diversity, build a global community, and amplify advocacy efforts.
Diverse women meeting

14/05/2025

Empowering women in private equity and M&A in order to foster leadership, drive diversity, build a global community, and amplify advocacy efforts.

In recent years, the business landscape has undergone a significant transformation, recognizing the immense value that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts bring to organizational success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not merely buzzwords; they are essential components of a thriving and sustainable business. Companies that embrace diversity benefit from a rich tapestry of perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved financial performance.

However, in the world of private equity, women have long been underrepresented. Oliver Wyman, in collaboration with IFC and RockCreek, conducted research on gender balance in private equity and venture capital in emerging markets. The study revealed a stark reality: women are underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 15% of firms and 20% of portfolio companies having gender-balanced teams.

Recognizing the need for change, the women of Marsh PEMA have taken a proactive approach to empowering women in the private equity and M&A space. They have launched the Private Equity Women’s Network (PWN) with a dedicated mission to foster a vibrant and empowering community for women professionals. PWN is committed to building a supportive network that promotes gender diversity, equity, and inclusion across the globe.

Led by a group of talented women, PWN has already made significant strides since its formation. Through impactful client events, educational workshops, and dedicated advocacy efforts, PWN is shaping a future where women in private equity and M&A thrive collectively but also have their contributions valued as essential drivers of innovation and success.

PWN’s commitment to progress extends beyond its own network. Recently, PWN expanded its initiative to include private capital colleagues at Mercer and Oliver Wyman, forging valuable partnerships that strengthen the network and create a broader platform for collaboration and support. Together, these organizations have made remarkable strides in supporting women in the industry, demonstrating their shared dedication to breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive and equitable landscape.

PWN’s Mission:

A community of women that brings together women professionals who work within the private equity and M&A space.

  • Foster women leadership within PEMA and advance their career development.
  • Drive diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, attracting more women to PEMA.
  • Build a global community and provide support to one another.
  • Engage female clients through external events, fostering relationships and expanding business development opportunities.
  • Partner with women-focused organizations and initiatives to amplify our advocacy efforts.
  • Publish articles, whitepapers, and case studies that highlight Marsh’s commitment to women’s advancement.

Women's History Month

To celebrate Women's History Month, the PEMA Women's Network (PWN) hosted a panel on LinkedIn Live: Breaking Barriers: 

Women are critical for business excellence. It was an inspiring discussion exploring the transformative power of diversity, including in driving business excellence. Research unequivocally proves that diverse teams outshine homogeneous ones. But how do we cultivate environments where diverse voices are not just heard, but valued and integrated into critical decision-making processes? Discover actionable insights from industry leaders as we pave the way for inclusive leadership and sustainable success.

Featured insights

Women in Climate Investing & Finance (WICIF) Sips & Sweets

PWN hosted the Women in Climate Investing & Finance (WICIF) Sips & Sweets event in New York City to celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month! The group is led by co-founders Meghan Pasricha, Marisa C. Sweeney, and Raychel Espiritu.

Lean more

Podcast: Women embracing opportunities in the risk and insurance industry

Gender diversity is crucial for fostering innovation and creating an inclusive work environment in the risk and insurance industry. Having female role models across all departments and levels can inspire young women to envision their future in the industry and attract more talent. In a special episode of Risk in Context for International Women's Day, industry leaders discuss the importance of gender diversity, the need for diverse succession plans, and the challenges and opportunities for women advancing their careers. Multiple female leaders from Marsh also share their insights and advice for young women entering the risk and insurance industry. 

Learn more

New York PWN event with keynote, Lisa Sun and Gravitas

The Marsh Asian Colleague Resource Group (ACRG), in partnership with the Private Equity Women’s Network (PWN), AIG Asian Leadership Employee Resource Group, and Womankind, a non-profit organization focused on supporting survivors of gender-based violence, hosted an event featuring author and entrepreneur, Lisa Sun.

Lisa the founder and CEO of the lifestyle brand, Gravitas, and author of the book of the same name, discussed redefining self-confidence in the modern era, inspiring attendees to find their authentic voices, identify their unique “superpowers,” embrace growth opportunities, and tap into their self-belief to reach their full potential. It was truly an inspiring presentation.

The Fold, London

The Private Equity Women's Network (PWN) hosted an extraordinary event that brought together over 30 senior women from the private equity industry at The Fold London. The event featured as special guest speaker, Polly McMaster, the CEO of The Fold London. Polly shared her incredible journey, transitioning from a successful career in Private Equity to founding the Fold. Her insights and the lessons she imparted along the way were nothing short of inspiring. The engagement and active participation of the women who attended the event contributed immensely to its success. Special recognition goes to the co-hosts for the event, Caroline Gibbons, Veronica Sorensen, and Chisa Kakuda, for their invaluable support in ensuring the event's success. 

Polly McMaster

The Private Equity Women's Network (PWN) recently hosted a remarkable event at The Fold London, bringing together over 30 senior women from the private equity industry. The event featured Polly McMaster, the CEO of The Fold London, as a special guest speaker. Polly shared her inspiring journey, transitioning from a successful career in Private Equity to founding The Fold. The active participation and engagement of the attendees greatly contributed to the event's success. Special recognition to the co-hosts, Caroline Gibbons, Veronica Sorensen, and Chisa Kakuda, for their invaluable support in ensuring the event's success.