Dr. Sonya Dilova 

PhD in East European Studies | MS in International Finance – University of Birmingham

Sonya Dilova has a portfolio career as an executive coach, non-executive director and academic lecturer. She is passionate to help others uncover their own potential through self-awareness leveraging on their strengths. After spending years of developing growth in large organisations, she is now focused on helping entrepreneurs scaling up, women developing leadership skills and confidence, and post graduates finding career direction by leveraging on their strengths. Sonya’s academic achievements include PhD on Banks in Transition Economies at the University of Birmingham, Masters of International Finance and Management and Marketing as well as ILM Level 7 executive coaching qualification.

She was attracted to the world of finance and ambitious to learn from the best. She pursued her executive career in UK-based financial organisations. Over the last two decades, Sonya operated in highly regulated financial markets, and well-versed in finance, stakeholder, and ESG environments. Alongside extensive experience in asset management, she has a strong international investment focus including emerging markets and Middle East, with expertise in rating advisory, growth, and strategy. Sonya Dilova embraces change and thrives in solving complex issues. Clarity and alignment of the vision are vital to the success of any organisation – especially in times of change. By being able to think strategically, focus on the future, and build upon strengths, she can navigate those changes and support others on the way.

Sonya is known for her client-centric approach, sound business judgment, and strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. She led the cultural initiatives at the asset management company in London by promoting art, mindfulness, and welfare projects – all of which helped maintain the engagement and wellbeing of the employees. Sonya’s interests include being with her family, the outdoors, fitness, music, art and spending time in her family home in Bulgaria. She is also a speaker on topics of finance, financial career and emerging markets at universities in the UK and Bulgaria.