Expert speakers from across the industry share insights on the diversity dividend and personal branding.

PIMFA, the leading trade association for the personal investment management and financial advice sector in the UK, welcomed over 100 delegates at their Women in Wealth half day conference. The event which was sponsored by RBS, featured speakers such as Jules Chappell OBE, Partner at Hawthorn Advisers who said: “with an average of only 12% of quotes printed in the business pages of the main UK national papers being attributed to female experts, it remains really important for senior women and journalists to work together, particularly in sectors such as finance and technology.”

Following this session Jan Carrington, Personal Brand Consultant at J C Corporate and Personal Image Consultancy led a practical session on personal brand, highlighting the importance of taking time to “invest in yourself and your Personal Brand’.

Later in the day Jane Sydenham, Investment Director at Rathbone Brothers shared her experiences over the course of a 30 year career in investment management: “there have been huge changes to systems, working processes and practices, regulation and attitudes, and almost all of the office buildings that were standing in the City 30 years ago have been replaced, but the fundamental need to communicate with and really understand our clients remains the same.” said Jane.

Sarah Pennells, Financial Broadcaster, Journalist and Founder of SavvyWoman.co.uk was the closing speaker at the conference who shared insights such as “sections of the financial services industry seem to believe that women aren’t interested in investing. I don’t think that’s the case. I think the challenge is for the industry to become more diverse and to talk about finance in a way that resonates with women. Some companies are making headway, but there’s more to be done.”

Liz Field, CEO at PIMFA commented on the forum saying: “diversity has proven benefits and we intend to lead the way in emphasising this. We continue to provide practical assistance to firms in developing the equality conversation with events such as today’s Forum. The Women in Wealth Forum provides a valuable opportunity for all those across our industry to provide inspiration, hear from experts and share knowledge and experiences”.