An increase in conversations about diversity and inclusion have begun to address a number of age-old stereotypes in the asset management industry. Yet in order to properly challenge this notion it is important to showcase exactly how unique and diverse employees within the industry really are.
HSBC Global Asset Management's latest Diversity and Inclusion video aims to do just that by focusing on a number of its employees outside of their investment roles. Each role highlights an aspect of their personality and shows how every part of their life contributes to them being a diverse member of the industry and society as a whole.
Featured employees include Lara Venter -the 11th strongest woman in England - who notes she is a "wife, daughter, sister, coach, umpire, captain and competitor", all roles that help her succeed in her day to day role as head of investment control at HSBC Global Asset Management. She finishes her part by stating she is "more than just one thing" at HSBC Global Asset Management.
The group's marketing manager Tim Roberts, advocates his strengths as a colleague, runner and squash player as well as being a disability coordinator and member of the Pride community, whilst investment analyst Krishan Parekh proudly embraces his roots as a "British Indian Lancastrian, with Fijian and Zambian heritage" as well as a son, brother and friend. For Martin McNamara, as well as being a cyclist, rock climber and scout leader, his pragmatic, solution-orientated and empathetic nature are all parts of his personality that highlight a deeper part of him that people may not be able to perceive at a first meeting.
The video, produced by Incisive Media's content division, Incisive Works, is part of a focus on diversity by the asset management firm which also sponsored Investment Week's recent Women in Investment Awards.
At a time when diversity is for many firms a tick-box exercise, HSBC Global Asset Management's UK CEO Andy Clarke believes diversity of thought is vital. He says: "I think about [diversity] a lot. Diversity of thought is vital. What's the best mix within a team that makes a brilliant team? How do we do more to bring the right people in? The best teams are a mix of everybody - a blend of many things including cultures, countries, backgrounds - it's a great advantage at HSBC as we have quite a mix. I'm proud that our business is engaged closely with diversity projects and helps raise awareness to the industry."
