Her Story
About Rachana
Rachana Ramaswamy is a finance professional at the World Bank, where she manages financial and portfolio oversight for climate funds amounting to about $800 million. With two years in the energy finance industry, she reviews investment proposals, evaluates financial soundness, advises on blended finance instruments, prepares financial models, and monitors portfolio performance while collaborating with investors across Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific region. Prior to this role, she worked in tech consulting and risk after earning an undergraduate degree in accounting from the University of Wollongong in Australia and a master's degree from LSE; she also holds ACCA certification and is a certified financial modeler. She joined the World Bank through its junior professional associate program. Rachana attributes her success to introspection and pursuing her passions, and she values building impactful relationships over mere networking. A notable achievement includes leading an investment proposal for renewable energy access in small island developing states and advancing a project in Ghana to boost clean energy and women's representation in the sector.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rachana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would largely attribute my success to my ability to introspect and spend a lot of time to actually understand where my passions lie. My career path and decisions have been shaped by what I wanted and what I enjoy doing and learning about.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice is to change your mindset when dealing with people and focus on building impactful relationships more than networking by the number. Treat networking like learning more about people to create deeper connections rather than just getting leads.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Especially for women in finance and energy sector where representation is low, always believe in yourself and your ability. Be sincere in your efforts to improve. Do not let intimidation or not being taken seriously get to you. It is okay to not be a master of a topic; it is possible to learn and improve.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Biggest challenges include political instability and navigating the political landscape in renewable energy, which is politically driven. Energy demands are increasing but supply is not enough. Opportunities include innovations and startups focusing on renewable energy access, performance, and battery storage. Developing countries are receptive to renewable energy due to climate vulnerability, offering big potential for economic development.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Introspection is very powerful both personally and professionally. Spending time with your own mind through meditation helps clear thoughts, keep grounded, think clearly, and foster creativity. Be curious, question the status quo, and be childlike in curiosity. Always be a student to maintain fresh perspective and achieve growth.
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