Credit voices: Ines Callahan

With a career spanning roles in external auditing and credit analysis, Ines has carved out a path defined by adaptability, analytical precision, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Born in Spain to English parents, her professional trajectory has been shaped by a desire to take on meaningful challenges and extend her skillset beyond traditional finance roles.

What inspired you to pursue a career in credit?

“After more than five years in audit, I was ready for a new challenge that wasn't confined to a traditional finance department role,” she shares. The opportunity to join Fitch during a competitive job market marked the beginning of her transition to credit analysis. Her extensive background in external auditing and statutory reporting provided her with a solid foundation for understanding complex financial frameworks—knowledge she has harnessed effectively in her current role.

Career highlights

Ines's career has unfolded in two phases. She spent almost five years with leading firms in external auditing, where she developed a comprehensive understanding of statutory reporting across different countries and accounting standards. “While formative,” she reflects, “this wasn’t my long-term calling.”

After working in Australia, her second phase began with her move to Fitch, where her roles have focused on managing teams and covering public sector credits, primarily in the UK, Netherlands and Gibraltar most recently, but initially in Spain, Australia and New Zealand. Her current role is heading up the team covering the UK and Netherlands within International Public Finance. This multifaceted role involves covering a range of public and not-for-profit sectors including social housing, healthcare, higher education, public transport, and local and regional governments. “Leading a team, ensuring consistent coverage, timely publication of issuer reviews, serving as the primary analyst for various credits, chairing Rating Committees, and spearheading special projects like the Climate Risk Project are among my key responsibilities.”

Describing her current position, she remarks, “The diversity of sectors and regions I engage with continuously challenges and enhances my expertise. Leading a talented team of analysts and contributing to the public sector fulfills my sense of social responsibility, allowing me to positively impact not-for-profit entities.”

Establishing the Netherlands healthcare coverage from scratch is among her standout accomplishments. “This now encompasses nearly 20 credits across various sub-sectors,” she explains. Her initiative in this area also led her to join the board of a local elderly care home near Barcelona, further demonstrating her dedication to the non-profit sector.

Among her other significant milestones is completing the Forward Path Cohort program, through which she presented innovative ideas on process efficiencies and automation to the ExCo. She has also given her expertise to internal groups like the Fitch Women’s Network and mentoring programs.

Insights for aspiring credit professionals

From her perspective, thriving in the credit industry demands both strong technical and interpersonal skills. “An ability to see the broader picture and critically evaluate data is vital,” she advises. “Being detail-oriented, possessing excellent analytical skills, and effectively communicating complex financial information are essential. Additionally, strong time-management skills are crucial to meet deadlines and regulatory requirements.”

She emphasizes the importance of building a foundation of curiosity and determination for aspiring professionals. “Cultivating strong analytical and communication skills is crucial for success in the credit field. If this is a sector that genuinely interests and inspires you, these skills will help pave the way for a rewarding career.”

Final reflections

For Ines, her career has been more than just a series of roles—it’s a platform for continuous learning and meaningful contribution. “Above all,” she concludes, “the key to success is a genuine interest in the field and a willingness to engage fully with the challenges and opportunities it offers. With the right mindset and analytical skills, a career in credit is incredibly rewarding.”