The Most Powerful Women in Banking

For the past four years Suni Harford has been co-chair of Citi Women, a global women's career-track initiative that involves more than 130,000 female employees.

Though some other investment banks have scaled back equity research efforts in recent times, Joyce Chang has successfully led continued investment and expansion at J.P. Morgan.

"To help teach, mentor and sponsor women to realize their full potential and contribute to our business and society inspires me, and keeps me motivated for both my colleagues and for my two daughters," said HSBC's Katia Bouazza.

"One of the most important responsibilities of a leader [is] motivating people and developing the future leaders of the organization," Citi's Julie Monaco said. "When you take the time to communicate these messages to your team you are creating a culture that is distinguished by a commitment to excellence."

Courage is key for Wells Fargo's Diane Schumaker-Krieg. Her 37 years in financial services is practically a road map on how to embody it.