In the ever-evolving landscape of asset and wealth management, fostering innovation through inclusivity is business imperative. The Diversity Project North America (DPNA) is at the forefront of this mission.
At the heart of DPNA’s efforts are its committees, each working collaboratively to promote best practices, create meaningful initiatives, and drive lasting change. Here’s how each committee is contributing to a more inclusive and innovative future.
Education Engagement Committee: Expanding the Talent Pipeline
Attracting and retaining the best early-career talent is essential for the industry's long-term sustainability. The Education Engagement Committee partners with high schools, colleges, and universities to build strong pipelines of diverse talent.
Recently, the committee members participated individually with organizations helping young people with skills and knowledge to help them plan for their futures. Moving forward, the committee has set its sights on three projects:
- Collecting information on member Internship Programs to help foster access to these career opportunities.
- Hosting an AI Talent Recruitment Webinar to explore the intersection of technology and workforce diversity.
- Expanding engagement with partner organizations to provide virtual participation opportunities.
Industry Engagement Committee: Amplifying the Mission
The Industry Engagement Committee leverages content distribution, social media campaigns, and live events to foster engagement among industry professionals.
In 2024, the committee spearheaded efforts such as the LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language Webinar and promoted awareness around Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Recently, they launched a Purple Sock Day campaign to further engage members and plan to align next year’s focus themes with industry priorities.
Looking ahead, the committee plans develop content on talent retention and promotion and practical guidance on managing DEI programs in light of recent legal decisions. The group plans to expand digital resources and toolkits for members, including social media content and event packages to promote DEI initiatives throughout the year.
Metrics and Insights Committee: Defining and Tracking Standards
The Metrics and Insights Committee supports firms in collecting and analyzing data that drives meaningful change.
A significant achievement this year was the Employee Resource Group (ERG) Analysis Whitepaper, which examines best practices from global financial firms. Additionally, the committee co-hosted a webinar with a focus on corporate culture and plans to follow that up with a program on ERGs in early 2025.
Next Practices Committee: Leading with Innovation
The Next Practices Committee focuses on forward-looking strategies that enhance business results and long-term industry sustainability.
In 2024, they released a blog on workplace culture, featuring insights from a roundtable discussion with an organizational culture expert. The hosted a corporate culture webinar in December as part of a broader effort to foster accountability across the industry.
The committee is currently working on a white paper that explores the significance of corporate culture in today’s workplace, address the challenges of managing work environments, and presents key strategies and innovative solutions.
Perception Committee: Measuring and Understanding Progress
The Perception Committee plays a pivotal role in assessing industry sentiment toward diversity and inclusion. Through its bi-annual Perception Study—developed in partnership with EY—the committee examines progress, identifies gaps, and provides actionable insights.
In 2024, committee members focused on sharing the findings of the 2023/2024 DEI Perception Study with other DPNA committees, ensuring that each group could integrate key takeaways into their own initiatives. Looking ahead, they will begin planning the 2025/2026 study, continuing their commitment to data-driven decision-making.
Looking Ahead: A United Commitment
Each DPNA committee plays a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry. Through education, engagement, data analysis, and innovative strategies, these groups are ensuring that diversity and inclusion remain at the core of the asset and wealth management industry.
Our Fearless Leadership Symposium Committee is hard at work planning an engaging event for June of 2025 in NYC. Visit our website for more information.
If you would like to join our mission and contribute to committee work for the Diversity Project North America, reach out to us at info@nicsa.org.