The ESCP Women in Finance Chair has investigated the career motivations of an international cohort of nearly 400 Master in Management students. The initial findings from December 2024 highlight a clear alignment between gender stereotypes and student career interests. Women appear to be less interested in finance compared to their male counterparts, gravitating instead toward fields traditionally associated with femininity, such as luxury and hospitality. Unfortunately, these results suggest that gender stereotypes continue to exert significant influence over students' career choices, limiting the diversity of talent in finance.
One contributing factor to this lack of interest is the unfamiliarity many women have with finance-related careers. Research indicates that individuals are less likely to pursue careers in fields they know little about. This makes early exposure to financial professions particularly important in fostering greater gender balance. The empirical results of the study confirm the strong link between early experience in finance and an interest in working in the finance industry. This indicates that by providing female students with insights into the various career paths within finance, we can help dismantle misconceptions and open doors to opportunities they may not have previously considered.
The ESCP Women in Finance Chair is committed to promoting equality in this field through targeted activities. A key component of our approach is ensuring that female students receive early exposure to the breadth of career possibilities in finance. To achieve this, we have organized a speed-dating event featuring 18 female professionals from diverse financial sectors. This event will enable over 100 female students to develop professional networks, gain mentorship, and receive guidance in shaping their career choices. Additionally, our ongoing mentoring program and mastermind groups dedicated to careers in finance have already supported numerous participants, equipping them with the resources and confidence to pursue finance-related careers.
By conducting intensive and well-grounded research, fostering awareness, providing mentorship, and challenging outdated stereotypes, the ESCP Chair Women in Finance aims to pave the way for greater gender diversity in the financial sector.
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