To mark International Women's Day 2025, four of HC Group's senior women leaders share their reflections on their commodities careers, and the state of progress for women across the sector.
Premesha McDonald, Portfolio Director, Metals and Minerals, APAC
When I first entered the world of commodities recruitment, I often felt out of place. I looked and sounded different, and it was hard not to feel self-conscious. Embracing my differences took time, but a community that valued true passion, drive, and genuine intent helped me find my footing. Many of these connections turned into true friendships, and we’ve supported each other through different stages of life.
While diversity is still a work in progress, I’m grateful for the clients and individuals genuinely striving for change. My experience as a recruiter who has thrived in this industry, alongside other successful women and minorities, has shown me the power of showing up, speaking my truth, and staying the course. My message is simple: keep showing up, stay true to yourself, and know that you belong here.
Connect with Premesha
Laura Berger, Portfolio Director, Financial Services, New York
When I first stepped into the commodities trading industry thirteen years ago, it was rare to come across another woman—whether as a candidate or a client. While progress has been made, with women now representing around 25% of the industry, the numbers remain far lower in front-office roles. There is still a long way to go, but I am encouraged by the increasing recognition from companies that change is necessary.
However, awareness alone is not enough. Building a truly diverse and inclusive industry requires continuous effort, commitment, and action. We cannot afford for this to be a conversation that only women are having—real progress depends on everyone, at every level, actively working toward change.
As we continue striving for balance, let’s move beyond discussion and focus on solutions. By championing gender diversity together, we can shape a future where talent is recognised, opportunities are accessible, and the industry thrives on the strength of its people—regardless of gender.
Connect with Laura
With women now representing around 25% of the industry, the numbers remain far lower in front-office roles. There is still a long way to go.
Mimi Chahal, Director, HC Talent Intelligence, UAE
Heading Talent Intelligence at HC Group offers clear visibility into the persistent diversity challenges within commodities trading. Our data consistently shows a broken rung on the career ladder, with talented women leaving the sector mid-career at disproportionate rates. The good news is that this is improving for key functions in trading such as business development and origination roles, but progress takes time.
I've witnessed this talent drain first hand. The industry loses valuable perspectives and leadership potential when women exit, often due to inflexible structures that fail to accommodate changing life circumstances.
This broken rung phenomenon isn't inevitable. Through Talent Intelligence, we identify practical solutions for clients that are backed by extensive data. These aren't merely inclusive gestures but strategic advantages in securing top industry talent. As a mum of three under-fours, I'm passionate about creating workplaces where women and mothers like myself don't just survive but truly thrive. For me IWD isn't just one day of the year - it's a movement.
Connect with Mimi
Victoria Todd, Portfolio Director for Energy, MENA
I started 6 years ago at HC Group and it was my first step into the world of commodity recruitment which was an unknown to me at the time. I personally had to go on a very fast and steep learning curve and definitely felt daunted at stepping into an industry that was largely male dominated. Also being based in the Middle East, we are still underrepresented.
That being said, I do feel empowered by the industry and inspired by a number of women in my network. I also see a high representation of women here in roles such as KYC/compliance, trading operations and legal, for example. I am also proud to lead an all-female team for HC Group ME and to have placed senior women into trading roles in the UAE.
Connect with Victoria
I do feel empowered by the industry and inspired by a number of women in my network. I see a high representation of women in the UAE in roles such as KYC/compliance, trading operations and legal.