As part of our celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, 100 Women in Finance is spotlighting members whose career trajectories have been uniquely shaped by their experiences and whose leadership is making a lasting impact in the finance industry. By amplifying their voices and sharing their stories, we aim to inspire action and advance greater visibility for women in finance.
This week, we celebrate Sofia Saracho, a trailblazer in the financial industry with a remarkable career spanning over 25 years in global markets. From leading top management teams at banks, wealth management firms, and fintech startups to establishing her own holding company with regulated entities across multiple countries, Sofia embodies excellence and innovation. As a recent 100 Women in Finance (100WF) Global Angel member, she amplifies her dedication to advancing women in the finance industry, and standing as a visible and inspiring role model for future generations. Gain a glimpse into Sofia’s extraordinary career, the wisdom she’s gathered, and her aspirations for empowering future leaders in this exclusive feature.
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Who is a woman—historical or contemporary—who has influenced your career or leadership style, and why?
The list is long. Starting with my mom, who taught me with her example that hard work pays off and to never give up. To mention some, Margaret Thatcher, Amelia Earhart and astronauts: Ellen Ochoa and Kalpana Chawla (I love NASA) I was deeply inspired by their perseverance. Finally, Dian Fossey, apart from studying the gorillas that I love, her passion and her efforts to go outside her boundaries and comfort zone, have amazed me since I was a child. I believe that over the past few years, as we’ve overcome so many challenges as women, I’ve been deeply influenced by all women (friends and colleagues), particularly when it comes to cultivating the next generation of leaders. As a mom of two girls, I am constantly reminded of the importance of empowering them with strong ethics and encouraging them to follow their passions.
How has access to mentorship and professional development shaped your career in finance? Can you share a specific moment when learning from others helped you grow?
I must start by acknowledging that all my mentors have been men. When I first began my university journey, I was fortunate to meet my first mentor, who had recently completed his term as Mexico’s Secretary of Finance. A friend who was dating his daughter introduced us, which brings me to the next question about the importance of networking. He took the time to understand my goals and aspirations, and provided invaluable guidance, helping me avoid many mistakes that young people often make when they think they know it all. Today, I’m fortunate to have a business partner whom I also consider a mentor. His vast experience is invaluable, and his willingness to adapt alongside newer generations is something I deeply appreciate.
Networking is a powerful tool in advancing careers. How has 100 Women in Finance helped you build meaningful connections, and what advice would you give to others on leveraging their network effectively?
Building on my previous response, I am a new member of 100 Women in Finance. While I’m excited to continue expanding my network, I also feel a deep responsibility to give back and support younger generations. I want to help them navigate the challenges we faced as women 25 or 30 years ago, while also acknowledging the new challenges they are encountering today. It’s crucial to encourage them to pursue leadership roles and managerial positions, and to show them that it is entirely possible to balance a successful career with a fulfilling personal life.
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Sofia Saracho’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the impact of empowering others. She demonstrates an unwavering commitment to advancing women in finance and mentoring future leaders as exemplified with her 100 Women in Finance Global Angel support. Her dedication inspires women to overcome challenges, pursue leadership roles, and achieve balance in their lives. Sofia’s leadership motivates us all to strive for excellence, support one another, and create a future where women fully realize their potential in every sphere.
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About Sofia Saracho
Sofia Saracho is the Chief Executive Officer of Agora Capital SA. She has more than 25 years of experience in the financial industry where she has been involved in the top management of banks, financial companies, wealth managers and brokers. She worked for Santander in Mexico and Miami, partnered in a start-up fintech in NY and established a family office in Geneva. She led the M&A and business development of a brokerage company in the UK and sat on the Boards of financial regulated entities in the UK, Bahamas, Dubai and Switzerland. She then founded her own Holding Company in Luxembourg which owns regulated entities in Italy, Switzerland and the UK. As an entrepreneur Sofia is an investor in various non-financial companies (retail, electric mobility, hospitality, AI and others) in Mexico, USA and Europe. She holds an MBA from Northwestern University-Kellogg School of Management and a BA in Finance from ITESM in Mexico.
Interested in connecting with other women in the industry?
See how a membership at 100WF can help propel your career and make a difference in the presence of women in the financial world.