For Australian Ethical, fostering gender diversity isn't merely a feel-good goal, but a strategic imperative. At Future IM/Pact, we’re proud to partner with Australian Ethical and applaud their ongoing commitment to driving gender balance within their business and across the industry.
At Australian Ethical, we're unwaveringly committed to gender diversity. Recognising historical challenges within investment management, we've embraced an active recruitment program, prioritising female talent. We firmly believe that fostering gender diversity not only enhances our investment capabilities but also drives superior investment performance. That's why we cherish our enduring partnership with Future IM/Pact, as together, we're shaping a more inclusive and successful future
Setting the standard: Gender diversity targets
At the heart of Australian Ethical’s commitment lies an unwavering dedication to setting and achieving ambitious gender diversity targets. In November 2023, as part of their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion policy review, Australian Ethical elevated their investment team female gender diversity target from 30% to 40%. By the end of the year, they had met this target and now boast a team composition of 8 females and 12 males in their investment management function, including Portfolio Manager Natalie Tam who you can read more about here.
Active recruitment and supportive policies
What sets Australian Ethical apart is not just their targets but also their proactive approach to achieving them. They actively target female candidates for investment management roles, ensuring that at least 50% of shortlisted candidates are women. Additionally, management understands the importance of supporting flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance, particularly for women juggling professional and personal responsibilities.
Australian Ethical also recognises that achieving gender diversity goes beyond numbers, and cultivating a culture of inclusion and support is key. They understand the barriers facing women in the field, from lack of self-confidence to societal expectations, and strive to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, feel empowered to thrive and succeed.
- Elevated Australian Ethical’s brand with university students and early career women.
- Enabled direct and personal access to a pool of emerging female talent.
- Increased employee engagement through their positive experience with the program.
- Facilitated collaboration across the industry, benefiting from insights and best practice.
