Equality rules in Investment Banking, but more women applicants needed

This was the encouraging message given to more than 50 female undergraduates at the brand new Women in Investment Banking, organised by TARGETjobs Events and held at Macquarie, London..

In addition to the host Macquarie, there were four other partners taking part in Women in Investment Banking: Barclays, Citi, Deutsche Bank and MUFG. The event was designed to increase the diversity of applications within the investment banking sector, while offering students an insight into the wide range of career opportunities available to them.

Over 250 female undergraduates registered to attend and 53 were selected, from over 20 different universities. They spent a busy day of networking, group activities, talks and panel discussions in the company of inspiring women at various stages of successful careers within Investment Banking. The focus was on demystifying the sector, offering students the chance to learn more about the partner firms and providing valuable networking opportunities between students and role models.

The keynote speaker was Jane Karczewski, Managing Director Prime Finance and Delta One at Citigroup, and her message was simple. In Investment Banking, women are treated very much as equals but the industry needs more to apply. She stressed the importance of making lots of connections and how networking is especially vital for new graduates who want to be successful later in their careers. Jane advised students to work out what they are best suited to as there are very many roles in IB - some not well-known - and it often takes experience inside a bank (ie an internship) to fully understand the differences between them.

Karen Goodacre, Graduate Recruitment Manager at the host firm Macquarie, said: “We were delighted to support and host such an important event that aims not only to encourage more females into Banking but equip them with the knowledge and skills required. The students were engaging and came prepared and focused which was fantastic. We hope to be part of it again next year.”

And the students were overwhelming positive about the experience. One commented: “Enlightening, and an honest representation of the roles and issues facing women in investment banking. An excellent opportunity to get a first hand perspective from high achieving women in the field.” Another said: “I learnt about how women’s presence in banking has changed over time.”