Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: The power of networks, sponsorship and risk-taking
The BVCA’s recent Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) series of panel discussions focussed on how network-building, mentorship and risk-taking can accelerate women’s careers. Sustainability Executive, Breeze Haywood, reflects on the event’s discussion and the need for active engagement with diverse talent pools to drive innovation and address underrepresentation in the industry.
On 6th March, ICG hosted and sponsored an International Women’s Day Reception at their London office, as part of the BVCA’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) series. The event welcomed a panel of inspiring women - Jameela Raymond, COO at The 10,000 Interns Foundation; Helen Steers MBE, Partner at Pantheon; and Johanna Barr, MD at Advent International.
Amidst the current geopolitical climate, the progression of DEI initiatives appears to be at a crossroads. Europe and many other parts of the world are advancing DEI work in stark contrast to the new US administration which is actively removing diversity initiatives. Despite these uncertainties, the UK is making positive strides in improving gender equity within the workplace, specifically within the private capital industry. A recent report produced by the BVCA and Level 20 found that 27% of UK-based private capital investment professionals are women, up since 24% in 2023. The findings also revealed that ethnic minority representation within the industry is now in line with the UK national average.
The event celebrated the positive strides that have been made in making the industry a more equitable place for all. Leaning into the theme of important role models, panellists shared their reflections on their careers so far, what has helped to accelerate their journey and what more needs to be done meaningfully to support women to enter and succeed in the industry.
Building Networks: the power of connection
Professional networks play a critical role in career advancement. Panellists emphasised that building and leveraging networks is essential to accessing new career opportunities, industry insights and sponsorship. Panellists encouraged women to be proactive in cultivating relationships across different levels of seniority, and for companies to engage in industry forums that can accelerate professional growth. Working in a mostly male-dominated industry, these networks can help to amplify your visibility and provide a sense of community that fosters confidence and collaboration.
The role of mentorship and sponsorship
Throughout the panel discussion, a core message that emerged was the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in enabling women to access the guidance and support needed to navigate and accelerate their career progression. Panellists shared how Level 20 and the 10,000 Interns Foundation provide focussed initiatives that target universities and schools to create a strong talent pipeline that address underrepresentation in the industry. Whilst it is important to support the career development of women who already work in the private capital industry, it is also vital to attract young professionals to the industry through collaborative networking events and internship opportunities. An integral part of the BVCA’s mission is to support firms to build inclusive environments in which everyone can thrive and industry initiatives like these play an important role in laying the foundations for diverse leadership pipelines.
Embrace risk-taking
Risk-taking is essential for career growth, yet women often disqualify themselves by prioritising perfection over taking bold action. Panellists shared their firsthand experiences of taking calculated risks – whether by stepping into leadership roles, pivoting within their companies or even transitioning into new sectors.
One panellist even shared a pivotal piece of career advice she received that transformed her mindset: ‘don't over-plan your life. Stop overthinking the next job – or the one after that’. Her initial perception was that a carefully structured career plan was the key to success and so this advice seemed counterintuitive. Instead, her mentor advised her to take a more holistic approach to her career by pursuing opportunities aligned with her passions, trusting that professional growth would follow. By taking the risk to embrace uncertainty, the panellist remarked on her experience of taking on a leadership role outside her comfort zone, accelerating her career.
As the panel came to a close, attendees were left with the message that, as an industry that thrives on attracting top talent, private capital firms must actively engage with diverse talent pools to drive innovation and success.
Authored by Breeze Haywood
Sustainability Policy Executive, BVCA
