Top Tips For Women Breaking Into Investment (Part 1)

Julie Moran, Baillie Gifford

Unsung Hero 

Having it all is a myth; you need to work out the right balance that works for you and your circumstances.

Find a career that you are passionate about and talented at, a workplace that is supportive and a partner that is your equal.

Happiness is not a goal. It is a by-product of a life well lived.

Nadia Manzoor, S. W. Mitchell Capital 

Rising Star

Most importantly of all, remember balance in everything that you do. The ability to switch off is crucial.

Having a career as a woman can be hugely empowering, but it is equally empowering to spend time with your family and to do the things that make you happy.

Summayya Mosam, Castlefield

Role Model of the Year

Have an open mind because you do not know what anything is like until you have tried it, and it helps to be free-flowing rather than rigid.

There is a career for everyone; for mums who want to work around school times and careers for homeworkers.

There is room to progress, while maintaining both a steady structured role and a balanced lifestyle.

Carolyn Porretta, previously AIG AM

Mentor of the Year

Self-awareness is extremely important. Not only do you need to know that you have valuable qualities, you also need to be able to articulate it at all times.

I would certainly recommend reflecting after each notable achievement or knock-back.

Fiona Manning, Aberdeen Standard Investments 

Most Inspiring Returner

Foster confidence in your abilities. This will give you the inner strength to set ambitious targets.

Success cannot be achieved alone. Build a strong network of colleagues and friends who can give you honest feedback, find mentors to challenge your ideas and provide support and, most importantly, a partner who sees your family life as a team where everyone pulls their weight.

Katie Colchester, FundQuest Advisor

Fund Selector of the Year

A keen interest in asset management combined with a strong desire to constantly challenge oneself is key to succeed in the industry.

While women are still under-represented in the investment field, the balance is changing and diversity is being increasingly encouraged.

Study hard, be strong and never be scared to shatter that glass ceiling.

Hannah Gooch-Peters, Sanlam 

Young Investment Woman of the Year (S/M)

Stay true to yourself, stay motivated, and never limit yourself; I am a true believer that if you work hard enough anything is possible.

I hear of women being deterred from the industry because of the predominantly male environments.

However, I am the only woman on my team, and it is an absolute privilege to work alongside inspiring and like-minded people every day. 

Helen Steers, Pantheon

Investment Woman of the Year (S/M)

Use mentoring and sponsorship opportunities as effectively as possible to progress your career. Mentors help not only with day-to-day advice, but can also assess career opportunities.

A sponsor can influence how high-profile projects are staffed and be an advocate for a more junior employee. Mine impressed upon me the need for self-belief and resilience, which women in investment roles can sometimes lack.