A range of financial institutions have promised to make sure more women find rewarding roles right at the top.
Aberdeen Asset Management, Virgin Money, Standard Life, Lloyds, Capital Credit Union and East Renfrewshire Credit Union have all signed up to the initiative.
Part of the government’s Women in Finance Charter, it has a big ambition: to get at least 30 per cent of women in senior positions by 2021.
It’s hoped this can be achieved through gender diversity targets and flexible working to accommodate life-work balances.
It may be the country’s highest paid industry, but the financial services sector has a gender pay chasm – 39.5% in contrast to 19.2% across the economy.
This new Charter may go a long way to closing that gap.
It’s certainly great news but we wanted to take a look at the opportunities available not only for women to progress right to the top but to get a foot in the door in the first place.
So what are the primary access routes into financial services?
The truth is there’s a mind-boggling range of options to choose from.
Many get into the numbers business by joining retail banks or building societies.
Degree-holders typically come in via a graduate trainee programme but there are also excellent in-house training and development plans on offer.
Of course, almost from day one you’ll be gaining invaluable experience in everything from saving schemes and loans to mortgages and pensions.
You’ll be surprised how quickly you can find yourself being considered for a move on up into a senior managerial post.
Investment banking is another popular avenue, starting off as an analyst involved in research for your new company.
Alternatively, as an assistant to an experienced manager, you not only get to see life on the frontline of corporate and investment finance – trading, portfolios, mergers, acquisitions – you also get your very own personal career mentor.
Promotion may mean handling your own account for the firm and working directly with clients.
Rewards-driven, this sector is most often regarded as the more lucrative end of financial services – though there are risks, too, so the pressure often feels far greater.
A clear focus and a level head are needed at all times.
Finally, of course, the very best access route in and right to the top is through the fantastic Financial Services vacancies on s1jobs