The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) has launched a new global initiative aimed at improving women’s access to careers in financial services, following strong international demand for the programme.
Nearly 300 women from 16 countries applied for the CISI’s new Women in Finance membership initiative, which offers 100 complimentary memberships to women either entering the profession for the first time or returning after a career break.
The UK, Ethiopia and Botswana recorded the highest number of applications, underlining what the CISI described as significant global demand for greater opportunities and representation in the sector.
The programme has been introduced under the CISI’s charitable objectives and seeks to address persistent talent shortages and diversity gaps across financial services by supporting women at different stages of their careers.
Successful applicants will gain access to the CISI’s smart learning platform, which includes more than 2,000 educational resources such as webinars, podcasts, on-demand video content and expert insights.
Members will also benefit from mentoring opportunities, global networking events, professional development tools and access to the CISI mobile app for flexible learning.
CISI chief executive Tracy Vegro said the initiative is designed to strengthen the future talent pipeline in financial services while giving women the confidence and support needed to build lasting careers.
“We are proud to welcome these women into our global community following a fantastic response to this new programme,” she said.
“What stands out is their drive and determination. This programme is about giving them the tools, support and confidence to build lasting careers in finance.”
Vegro added that the initiative reflects the organisation’s wider commitment to improving diversity, retention and career progression across the profession.
“As a professional body and educational charity, we believe talent should not be limited by background, location or circumstances,” she said.
“We want more women not only entering the profession but staying, progressing and leading within it.”
CISI chair Michael Cole-Fontayn said the response to the initiative highlighted the scale of untapped talent among women seeking opportunities in finance.
“This extraordinary level of interest demonstrates the scale of untapped potential among women seeking careers in finance,” he said.
“Behind every application is ambition, resilience and potential, and supporting women to enter and thrive in financial services is important for the future of our profession.”
Applicants to the programme include students looking to enter the financial services industry as well as experienced professionals returning after career breaks.
The CISI said the Women in Finance initiative forms part of its broader commitment under the UK Treasury Women in Finance Charter, as the professional body continues efforts to improve female representation and progression across the global financial services sector.