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Meet Leah Higgins

Meet Leah Higgins

We spoke to our Analyst in Banking and Investments Leah about her role, and what it's like to work for the National Wealth Fund.

Leah Higgins

Tell us what attracted you to join the NWF?

NWF’s unique position in the market, sitting between government and the private sector. After graduating from university, I was looking to work in the energy transition sector and NWF provides a rewarding opportunity to support the UK’s transition to Net Zero and promote economic growth across the UK.

What does your role involve?

My role involves supporting the team with private sector transactions, from origination through to financial close. As an analyst, this involves financial modelling, assessing third party due diligence reports and producing investment committee papers. The role also involves assisting the team with external market engagement with investors, developers, banks and industry players.

What is the NWF like to work for?

NWF is an exciting, fast-paced organisation. Working on bespoke, often first-of-a-kind, infrastructure transactions means that the Banking & Investments team often proactively shape transactions, making it a dynamic place to work. Also, junior members of the team are encouraged to work across different sectors and products, meaning you get a wide range of experience in different types of infrastructure transactions.

What were you doing before you joined the Fund, and how has your experience helped with the role you are now doing?

I was studying a Master’s in Finance and Investment at the University of Leeds. This meant I had a baseline knowledge of corporate finance. I also studied some climate-related modules, which aided my understanding of the energy transition and the role of the banking sector in enabling this.

What are your highlights/ proudest achievements since joining the NWF?

There have been many highlights since joining NWF, including various site visits, conferences, internal and external presentations and gaining approval at multiple investment committees. I was particularly proud to have worked on the £150m investment in Hyperoptic, which will support the rollout of full fibre network infrastructure across the UK.

What are you looking forward to next at the NWF?

Following the Chancellor’s announcement in October, I am looking forward to the implementation of NWF’s expanded mandate to support delivery of the wider industrial strategy. There are constantly exciting opportunities in the pipeline to get involved with, so I am looking forward to working on further impactful transactions.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a role here?

I would highly recommend applying for an analyst role at NWF. It is a great place to learn, especially for those early in their career who are looking to gain exposure to a range of products and sectors while also making a difference by supporting the transition to clean energy.

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