Breaking Barriers

Investment20/20 proven to improve socio-economic diversity

Breaking Barriers

An academic research project by executive MBA student Sonia Jenkins – ‘Evaluation of the Investment20/20 programme impact in increasing socio-economic diversity in the UK investment management workforce’ – provides evidence that Investment20/20 is helping to diversify the investment management sector.

Bringing together quantitative survey data, in-depth qualitative interviews, career journeys, and testimonials of industry professionals who started their career through Investment20/20, the findings clearly show how recruiting for potential creates a wider, more diverse pool of talent.

We are witnessing more conversations around social mobility across our industry, and a range of initiatives aimed at tackling issues associated with this topic, for example the City of London’s Socio-Economic Taskforce for Financial Services.

The research questions assessed the value-add of Investment20/20 within the wider investment management sector.

Key findings from the study

Alumni are from broader socio-economic backgrounds than the current investment management workforce.
Investment20/20 participation has a notable positive impact on awareness, aspiration, skills, and confidence of trainees.
The programme has a long-term impact:
- 85% of respondents were offered a longer role upon completion of their trainee programme. This illustrates that being part of the programme helps lower barriers around the recruitment process and educational screening - acting as a ‘foot in the door.’
- Excluding those alumni who are in full time education, 87% are currently employed in investment management, with 72% still employed by their trainee firm.
Over time, alumni typical role type shifts towards investment roles. The programme is providing a platform to break into what are often considered more aspirational roles.
Alumni research shows that the trainee programme makes a notable impact on female perception of the industry and their long-term aspirations for an industry career.

“The trainee programme enabled me to believe in things that I could not fathom prior. I was given exposure to my role and the industry at the right level - and I was guided at every step till I was comfortable to lead on my own. The networking opportunities allowed me to share similar experiences with people that I resonated with and I was able to learn more from industry experts. Without the scheme, I would not have achieved the things I am proud to say I have, today.”

Alumni survey response.