In March 2008 The Fraud Women’s Network announced that there would be an annual award dedicated to Stella Walsh who was a key founding member of the Fraud Women’s Network which started life in early 2004.

Stella was a dedicated professional within the fraud arena at a time when there were few women prepared to enter what had traditionally been regarded as a strongly male environment. Throughout her career working in fraud she set new standards for her peers. Her strength of character and determination to ensure that the best result was always achieved through her dedication and meticulous attention to detail was well known. Her approach to fraud could be described as persistent and determined, and was always accompanied by a strong sense of humour which stayed with her until her premature death from cancer at the age of 40.

As a mark of respect for Stella Walsh, the Fraud Women’s Network (FWN) in partnership with the London Fraud Team launched the award at our annual event on the 6th March 2008. The FWN and the London Fraud Team invited nominations for a female in fraud prevention, detection or an investigation role who has achieved any of the following:

• An outstanding fraud investigation;
• Innovative product development;
• Bravery through fraud related work; or
• Long term commitment to fraud (a life time achievement).

This year’s winner was Joy Przeczek of American Express in the category of long term commitment to fraud.

Toni Sless, Chairwoman of the Fraud Women’s Network (left); Joy Przeczek of AMEX and winner of the Stella Walsh Award (centre); and Jackie Barwell, Director of the Fraud Women’s Network

In the forthcoming months, the Fraud Women’s Network will be asking their members to nominate either a fellow member or someone within the industry who has achieved any of the following:-

• an outstanding fraud investigation
• innovative product development
• bravery through fraud related work
• long term commitment to fraud (a life time achievement)

The reasons for nomination may include, but not necessarily be limited to the above four categories. Recommendations should be submitted to the FWN, with a written justification of between 500 and 1,000 words. All nominations will be reviewed by a sub-committee consisting of two executive members of the FWN and the London Fraud Team, before the final review and endorsement. The permission of the Nominee must be obtained prior to any submissions.

Click here to download the form as a pdf
Click here to launch the online form and submit your nomination via the web
The award is sponsored by the London Fraud Team and will be an annual event


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