Keynote - Dr. Howard Haughton

Title: The Symmetry of Solutions: Why Diversity is a Mathematical Necessity

Abstract: In mathematics, we often seek the most elegant solution through different perspectives and frameworks. This principle holds true in the professional world: complex problems are rarely solved by a singular way of thinking. Dr Howard Haughton discusses his journey through the mathematical sciences, illustrating how a diversity of thought, background, and approach is not just a social goal, but a technical requirement for solving the world’s most pressing challenges.

Dr. Howard Haughton is a distinguished scholar and professional with expertise in finance, technology, mathematics, and equity, diversity, and inclusion. He holds a PhD in Mathematical Computer Science from Wolverhampton University and advanced finance qualifications from the Universities of York and Oxford. Dr. Haughton has held key positions at Merrill Lynch, Deutsche Bank, Dresdner Bank, and JP Morgan, as well as major financial institutions in the Caribbean.

As a Senior Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London, his research focuses on computational finance, AI-driven financial modelling, and risk analysis. He has developed an AI/ML policy framework promoting ethical and inclusive practices across various UK sectors. Dr. Haughton advises governments and financial institutions on corporate governance, ethics, treasury management, risk management, capital markets solutions, and sustainable economic development.

An advocate for diversity in mathematics, Dr. Haughton has been a keynote speaker at the Black Heroes of Mathematics events and contributes to Mathematics Today, highlighting the contributions of Black mathematicians. He chairs the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee at the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications and serves as the Inclusive Leadership Lead Consultant at The Diversity Trust. His book, Woken Leader, shares insights on achieving inclusive leadership and enhancing workplace well-being.

Dr. Haughton also chairs Sporting Equals, a national charity promoting diversity within the UK's sports and physical activity sector. His work continues to influence multiple fields, establishing him as a key figure in promoting diversity, inclusion, and sustainable practices both in the UK and globally.

In the realm of sustainable economic development and debt management, Dr. Haughton co-authored the paper "Alleviating Debt Distress and Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals," published in Sustainable Development in 2021. This work addresses unprecedented external debt levels in low-income developing countries and least developed countries, proposing strategies to alleviate debt distress and advance sustainable development goals.

Additionally, Dr. Haughton authored a Commonwealth report offering strategies to manage hidden government liabilities in unfunded pensions, loan guarantees, disaster relief, and other contingencies. The report provides a formalised approach to manage these contingent liabilities, giving governments a more accurate picture of their risk levels.