On November 13, ESCP Business School proudly hosted an engaging and thought-provoking event organized by the Women in Finance Chair, dedicated to exploring the career experiences of women in finance across diverse countries. This annual gathering brought together professionals, academics, and students to exchange ideas, share experiences, and chart pathways toward greater inclusion and equity in the global financial industry.
Professor Almudena Cañibano, Co-Scientific Director of the Chair, presented compelling research findings on the paradoxical experiences faced by women in finance. She highlighted the "visibility-invisibility" dilemma, where women feel pressured to remain “invisible” to avoid stereotyping while simultaneously needing to amplify their visibility to gain recognition. Another important issue addressed included the tensions between family commitments and professional engagement, illustrating how traditional organizational policies often fall short in addressing these dual expectations. The research proposed rethinking HR practices to move beyond these contradictions and to adopt frameworks that view work and family as complementary rather than conflicting.
Another highlight of the day was a vibrant panel discussion featuring Marina Puljiz, Bo Huang Launois, and Stefanie Titze, displaying their experiences in various countries such as Croatia, France, Germany, Italy and the UK in Europe, and the US and China. Moderated by Professor Marion Festing, also Co-Scientific Director of the Chair, the panel offered invaluable perspectives on overcoming challenges, leveraging opportunities, and driving transformation in international finance careers. The conversation underscored the importance of resilience, adaptability, and proactive networking in navigating the complexities of a globalized financial world.
Following the panel, attendees participated in interactive workshops that delved into three key topics: How to Best Prepare for an International Career in Finance, Mentoring, and Parenthood. These sessions encouraged meaningful exchanges and provided participants with actionable insights and strategies to navigate their professional and personal journeys effectively.
The event concluded with a strong sense of collaboration and optimism. ESCP Business School extends heartfelt gratitude to the speakers, participants, and organizers who contributed to making this event a success. Together, we continue to shape a more inclusive and dynamic financial industry, paving the way for the next generation of leaders.
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