Blaming is (too) easy says Melanie Beyeler, fund manager of the New Capital Climate Transition Equity Fund. In celebration of International Women’s Day, Melanie shares this personal reflection on her career in finance and why she believes that people of all genders can thrive and find fulfilment in the financial services industry.
The financial services industry continues to demonstrate a gender imbalance, with women significantly underrepresented. While men, as the dominant demographic in this sector, are often seen as the primary agents for promoting gender equality, it is a shared responsibility. Men do have a crucial role in leading initiatives for change, but it’s not their responsibility alone. Women also play an essential part in driving this transformation – women like myself who are already part of the industry and have insights and experiences to share.
Fostering change and closing the gender gap requires more than just acknowledging the problem. We need success stories and accessible role models. The current conversation often focuses on the challenges women encounter. Although these accounts are important, they should be complemented by stories that inspire and instil confidence, providing real-life examples for women to emulate. By stepping into the limelight, sharing our experiences, and setting a precedent, we lay down the markers for future generations. My story is not a blueprint but an example that women can thrive and find fulfilment in the financial services industry.
Pursuing my passion
When I chose a career in financial services, I faced questions like “Are you sure this the right choice for you?” and “Wouldn’t you be happier in another field?” Overcoming these doubts was possible through a combination of personal resolve and support from my relationships, which helped me remain committed to my career choice. I think such scepticism arises from common misconceptions about the industry. The perception that it’s a homogeneous field, epitomized by fictional characters like Gordon Gekko, is misleading. In reality, the sector offers a wide variety of roles suitable for different personalities and talents.
My path to becoming an equity fund manager was shaped by encouragement and wisdom from mentors of all genders. Their guidance has been crucial in finding my unique niche in the financial world. This journey has broadened my comprehension of global markets and facilitated enriching connections with remarkable individuals, both within my workplace and beyond. Serving as a fund manager offers me the opportunity to combine my personal passion with my career and to make a positive impact.
Navigating a career
Juggling the roles of motherhood and a full-time career invites tough inquiries: “Don’t you feel guilty? Don’t you wish for more time with your child?” Indeed, there’s a tug of conscience about the time away from my son. Yet, my professional fulfilment also nourishes me, enhancing my motherhood. It’s a nuanced equilibrium, ever shifting with life’s phases. Nonetheless, the combined satisfaction of nurturing my child and progressing as a passionate fund manager brings me profound joy.
Fulfilling dual responsibilities enables me to exemplify the concept of collaborative parenting. In our household, chores are divided based on individual strengths and preferences, not by gender roles. Such cooperation fosters equilibrium at home and imparts to my son a valuable lesson about equality in partnerships, with both parents actively supporting one another’s professional and personal development.
Embracing an individual path
As a woman in the financial services industry, questions about belonging and identity are common: “Don’t you feel out of place in a male-dominated field? Do you need to emulate male behaviour to be taken seriously?” The challenge of standing out rather than fitting in has been a recurring theme. It’s true that I’ve often been the only woman in the room. At first, standing out can be intimidating, especially for those new to the field. However, being distinctive shouldn’t be seen as a negative. In fact, it’s a chance to stand out and to be memorable.
I believe it’s essential to understand that our core selves go beyond gender distinctions. One’s true nature is not defined exclusively by gender but is a mosaic of values and actions influenced by a variety of factors. My experience in the industry has been enriched by establishing and fostering connections with people across the gender spectrum.
