CFA UK

In the latest episode of the CFA UK Future Proofing Finance Podcast, hosts Ben Ashby, ASIP and Tom Threlfall, CFA sit down with Dr. Valeria Raffuzzi, Research Associate, University of Cambridge, to explore the evolving role of nuclear energy in the global transition to net zero. Dr. Raffuzzi explains her transition from renewables to nuclear engineering, explaining along the way why Western infrastructure projects face high costs and delays due to regulatory hurdles, political issues, and supply chain complexities. The episode also explores: Drivers of the "nuclear renaissance" and global power demand Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for cost-effective scalability Technical and economic hurdles for fusion energy Nuclear cost and sustainability misconceptions Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of nuclear energy, the realities of decarbonisation, and the opportunities and risks ahead for investment professionals.

In the latest episode of CFA UK’s In Conversation podcast, host Anita Brown speaks with David Carlin, founder of D.A. Carlin and Company, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable finance and the opportunities and risks it presents for the financial sector. David outlines the environmental costs of advanced AI, from data centre energy use to model training, and focuses on the importance of establishing ethical AI governance focused on transparency and accountability. They also discuss tracking emissions and evaluating net-zero strategies using AI, all while avoiding automated groupthink and prioritising human judgement when making complex decisions. Tune in for an insightful discussion on innovation, responsibility, and the evolving role of AI in shaping the future of finance.

In this episode of the CFA UK Future Proofing Finance podcast, hosts Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA speak with John Reade, Senior Market Strategist at the World Gold Council. John shares his 40-year career journey from mining engineer to market strategist, and explains the evolving landscape of gold markets for investors. Explore: Gold’s value as a portfolio diversifier The impact of gold-backed ETFs on investor access Central bank reserve strategies and demand for gold Physical storage considerations and market dynamics Comparisons between gold and Bitcoin Tune in for an insightful conversation on gold markets, investment strategy, and the evolving role of gold in your investment portfolio.

In this episode of CFA UK’s In Conversation podcast, host Olly King sits down with Jegor Tokarevich, CEO of Substance Over Form (SOF), to explore the evolving landscape of sustainable finance regulatory reporting in private markets. Jegor shares insights into the growing complexity of ESG compliance across frameworks such as SFDR, the EU Taxonomy, and CSRD, and discusses how these regulations are reshaping expectations for both General Partners (GPs) and Limited Partners (LPs). The episode also explores: Jegor’s perspective on the key ESG reporting challenges facing private equity and private debt managers The impact of fragmented data and lack of standardisation in private markets How SOF supports GPs, LPs, and portfolio companies with ESG data collection and validation The importance of early alignment between LPs and GPs on ESG Advice on staying agile amid rapidly evolving regulatory requirements Tune in for an insightful conversation on ESG regulation, data challenges, and how collaboration and technology are shaping the future of sustainable investing in private markets.

In this episode of the CFA UK Future Proofing Finance Podcast, hosts Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA sit down with Karen Rudich, Canadian fintech entrepreneur and founder of sherloc. Karen explores her journey from investment banking to building an AI-driven startup focused on helping small businesses manage financial volatility. You'll hear how she navigates fundraising and builds resilient, purpose-driven teams in a fast-moving fintech landscape. The episode also explores: Karen’s transition from banking into entrepreneurship The role of AI and predictive analytics in supporting SMEs The importance of value-aligned partnerships in scaling a business Lessons learned from fundraising and leadership challenges Practical advice for aspiring fintech founders Tune in for an insightful conversation on innovation, resilience, and the evolving role of AI in shaping the future of finance.

In this episode of CFA UK’s In Conversation podcast, host Dr Nic Pillow sits down with Omid Pakseresht, CEO of Goodfolio, to explore how venture studios are changing the way startups are built. Omid discusses Goodfolio's practical AI integration for efficiency and scalable solutions in fintech and healthtech, including ethical considerations. Not only that, he argues why venture studios are a strong partner to traditional VC, reducing risk and accelerating market entry with a robust support system for entrepreneurs and investors. The episode also explores: How the venture studio model works in practice Identifying ideas, building founding teams, and supporting growth Embedding ethical and ESG principles into early-stage investment Supporting diverse and underrepresented founders Using artificial intelligence to drive innovation responsibly Tune in to discover how venture studios are changing the game for startup creation, focusing on ethical and impact-driven entrepreneurship.

In the latest episode of CFA UK’s Future Proofing Finance Podcast, Cambridge University’s Duncan Needham joins Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA to see what financial history can tell us about our financial future. Discover the fascinating journey of financial markets, from the evolution of reserve currencies to the dynamics of global trade, as Duncan analyses the lessons shaping today’s economic landscape. If you’re a history buff, a financial expert, both or even neither – this captivating discussion will bridge the gap between past and present.

In the latest episode of CFA UK’s In Conversation podcast, Tanishq Jain speaks with Louis Millon, Principal at Systemic Capital, about how data and technology are transforming climate investing. Reflecting on his personal journey, Louis touches on the role data and AI can play in countering climate change, and how to use it to evaluate sustainable start-ups. They focus on the evolution of sustainable investing, the impact of regulations on climate data disclosure, and the need to plug data gaps. Hear where climate investing is going – listen now!

In our latest In Conversation podcast, Dr. Giovanni Bandi joins Prab Bajwa, CFA to discuss innovative solutions being developed through the Regulatory Genome Project at the University of Cambridge to complex global regulation. They explore the importance of RegTech in investment management, the role of AI in compliance, and the potential for greater regulatory convergence and standardisation. From the need for a digital rule book, to embedding compliance within technology, discover how we can refine and streamline financial services to capture greater value.

In this episode of CFA UK’s In Conversation podcast, Francesca Wheble chats to Yiota Michou, CFA, Investment Manager, Climate Asset Management. Yiota describes her journey into sustainability and impact investing, and what core strategies she’s been employing to invest in natural capital. Discover the standout projects Yiota’s been involved with, explore the key risks affecting natural capital investment, and find out Yiota’s top tips for embarking on a sustainable investing career path!

In the latest episode of CFA UK's Climate Change Podcast, John Teahan, CFA speaks to Maria Carvalho, Head of Climate Economics and Data, NatWest. Maria outlines the critical role of investment in supporting sustainable agriculture and alleviating the challenges faced by farmers from accelerating climate change. They explore the tension between portfolio decarbonisation and real-world decarbonisation, emphasising how financial institutions can support farmers transitioning to more sustainable practices. From the evolving regulatory framework to the impact of climate change on farming, get the lay of the land on what the future of agriculture could mean for you.

In this episode of CFA UK's Future Proofing Finance podcast, Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall meet Jonathan Bier, Chief Investment Officer, Farsight Investors. A prominent figure in the world of crypto investing, Jonathan shares his journey from traditional finance to launching a crypto equity fund, discussing the challenges and opportunities emerging from the FCA’s retail ban lift. Explore insights on Bitcoin cycles, the difference between regulatory approaches in the UK and US and take a deep dive into the intersection of traditional finance and the dynamic world of crypto - start listening now!

In this episode of CFA UK's In Conversation podcast, Jim Totty, CFA, speaks with Jack Chellman, Chief Project Officer at the Global Returns Project, about the role of philanthropy in sustainable finance. Jack and Jim discuss how financial institutions can integrate philanthropic donations into client offerings and investment products, enhance ESG strategies, and deliver fast, measurable impact. With less than 2% of global philanthropic capital going to climate mitigation, Jack argues for normalising environmental giving across the financial ecosystem. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, Olivia Wingrove, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager at LGT Wealth Management, and IMC holder, sits down with Pia Farooq, a fellow IMC holder, to discuss their journeys into the investment industry. Pia and Olivia explore the importance of the IMC qualification, its role as a precursor to the CFA, and how it helps build a strong foundation for a career in finance. Pia also shares her insights into balancing work, study, and personal life, and valuable tips for those considering the IMC or CFA. Discover more about the IMC today: https://tinyurl.com/pff9d5ff

How does crypto fit into institutional portfolios? In this episode, Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, sit down with Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise Asset Management, to explore the institutionalisation of digital assets. Matt, Ben, and Tom explore how crypto began as from a frontier technology to something gaining institutional adoption, alongside the implications of recent regulatory shifts in the US. Matt also looks at the separation between Bitcoin and programmable blockchains like Ethereum, and the emergence of decentralised finance (DeFi), before outlining a framework for crypto asset allocation within diversified portfolios, and discusses the macroeconomic backdrop shaping digital asset adoption. Disclaimer: The views in this podcast are personal opinions and do not represent CFA UK. This content does not constitute financial advice.

In this sponsored episode of In Conversation, Chris Ware, CFA, sits down with Edoardo Gili, CFA, Senior Analyst at Green Street, to explore the evolving landscape of real estate investment. From the shifting dynamics of REITs to the integration of infrastructure and real assets, this conversation offers deep insights for investment professionals navigating today’s market. Examining real estate’s evolution into a more operationally intensive asset class and the active management requirements that come with it, Chris and Edoardo explore the distinctions between public REITs and private real estate markets. Together, they look at their long-term performance convergence and the importance of risk-adjusted returns. Edoardo and Chris also discuss the global valuation trends regarding real estate, the performance of REITs in the US compared with Europe and the UK, M&A activity in REITs, and how rising development costs coupled with stricter lending criteria are reshaping the development landscape. An extended discussion between Edoardo and Chris on real estate sectors is also available on CFA UK’s Professional Learning platform: https://www.cfauk.org/careers-and-cpd/resources/real-estate-sectors-data-development-and-investor-appeal DISCLAIMER: This podcast does NOT constitute investment advice nor is it provided in the capacity of a fiduciary. Visit www.greenstreet.com/disclosure for important information. About Green Street Green Street is the leading provider of actionable real assets research, news, data, analytics, and advisory services in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. For 40 years, Green Street has delivered unparalleled intelligence and trusted data on the public and private real estate markets, helping investors, banks, lenders, and other industry participants optimise investment and strategic decisions. The firm delivers exclusive market information, conclusion-driven insights, and predictive analytics through a SaaS platform. To learn more, please visit www.greenstreet.com. More about Green Street: https://greenstreet.com/?utm_source=cfauk&utm_medium=partnership&utm_campaign=brandawareness&utm_term=green-street&utm_content=cfa-website

In this episode, JC Valer, Lecturer at the Tecnológico de Monterrey, and Visiting Academic at the University of Oxford, speaks to Debbie Clarke, Non-Executive Director at BlackRock Group Limited, discussthe ethical challenges that come with conflicts of interest and operating with integrity. Examining case studies around transparency, ethical guardrails, and the fine line separating acceptable hospitality from potential conflicts of interest, Debbie emphasises the need for an ethical lens in decision-making and maintaining integrity throughout your career. This podcast is part of a series of ethics discussions, the rest of which are available on CFA UK’s Professional Learning platform: https://www.cfauk.org/careers-and-cpd/resources/ethics-and-professionalism

In this episode, Kelsey Su, CFA, Sales Operations Manager, Dahua UK & Ireland, talks to Dr Mandy Lehto, executive coach, and host of ‘Enough, the Podcast,’ to talk about workplace overwhelm. Mandy draws from her own high-pressure background and coaching career to share her insight in recognising the signs of overwhelm, the physical and mental toll of sustained stress – and how to begin reclaiming balance. During the episode, Mandy recommends listeners to read “Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World” by Anne-Lorraine Le Cunf: https://shorturl.at/U91nF

In this episode, John Teahan, Portfolio Manager at Redwheel, interviews Karina Litvak, Non-Executive Director at Terna S.p.A, and prominent figure in climate governance and sustainability. Karina and John discuss her journey from finance to board roles, and the challenges of implementing climate action amid complex corporate governance. In particular, John and Karina look at the impact of COP21 in shaping corporate climate commitments. Karina and John discuss the dynamics of stakeholder engagement from a board member perspective. The conversation also explores the importance of understanding both production and demand in the energy sector, the role of the Climate Governance Initiative, and the need for resilience in energy grids as the world transitions to a more sustainable future.

In this episode, Arantxa Sardina, Corporate Sponsorship & Stakeholder Manager at GAIN UK, speaks with Hitesh Dattani, Director of Grey Matter Jobs, about the growing importance of age diversity in today’s workforce. Drawing on over 30 years of experience in asset management, Hitesh shares what inspired him to launch a recruitment platform dedicated to championing age-inclusive hiring. Together, Arantxa and Hitesh explore how connecting experienced job seekers with forward-thinking employers can foster more dynamic and inclusive workplaces. They also delve into the entrepreneurial journey—highlighting the resilience, strategic planning, and mindset required to build a purpose-driven business from the ground up.

Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman joins Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, to shed light on the unparalleled volatility and policy upheavals reshaping today’s economic landscape. With the United States leading the charge towards increased protectionism, Paul highlights the staggering rise in US tariffs, which have surged from an average of 3% to around 15%. Paul, Ben, and Tom also discuss their perspectives on cryptocurrency and stablecoins, evaluating its legitimacy and utility in the current financial system, and examining what might come after the dollar in today’s unprecedented world. An extended version of this conversation is available for our members. To watch Paul, Ben, and Tom discuss the immediate impact of tariffs and protectionist policies (including deportation orders) on the US economy and dollar, China’s economic challenges and how they compare to Japan in the 1990s, and whether Paul sees any positives to the tariffs, members can watch the extended conversation here: https://www.cfauk.org/careers-and-cpd/resources/nobel-laureate-economist-paul-krugman-on-navigating-uncertainty-in-the-global-economy

In this episode, John Teahan interviews Dorothée D'Herde, Director of Responsible Business at Kingfisher plc. Dorothée and John discuss the circular economy, and how Kingfisher as a DIY retailer utilises it in reducing their carbon emissions. Dorothée also shares insights on Scope 3 emissions, and the importance of engaging suppliers in decarbonisation efforts. John and Dorothée also touch on customer demand for sustainable products, innovations in the home improvement sector, and the regulatory challenges faced by companies in reporting their sustainability efforts.

In this episode, James Dolman, CFA, Director of Alium Dolman Limited, interviews Saffron Hill, CFA, Management Consulting Associate at AlixPartners. Saffron discusses her career journey in the investment industry, from taking the Investment Management Certificate (IMC) as part of her employee training, to using the skills, knowledge, and disciplines she gained to move into the next stage of her career. Not one to stop there, Saffron has since gained her CFA, and closes off the episode with some foundational advice to anyone on a similar path. Visit cfauk.org/imc to see how you can transforms your career and turn your potential into progression.

How do you solve a trillion-dollar investment gap in your sector? In this episode, David Manuel speaks to Chris Kuchanny, Founder and CEO of Impactable Investment Group, to discuss the changing landscape of impact investing in emerging markets. Looking at his own journey from traditional finance to founding Impactable, Chris and David examine how financial returns can be balanced with social and environmental impact – especially where sustainable development goals (SDGs) are concerned.

In this episode, Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, chat with James Harris, Chief Commercial Officer of Zodia Custody. James shares his journey through various traditional finance institutions, including Citi Group and Standard Chartered Bank and his eventual pivot into crypto. Compared to other areas of investment, crypto is still a maturing sector, but its rise to fame has been pretty dramatic. James explores how the world of crypto and digital assets has adapted and matured over the last few years. Using his wealth of experience James breaks down what digital asset custody is, and why it’s pivotal to the future of digital assets.

In this episode, Aranzazu Sardina and Emma Kangis, an executive/leadership and career coach, discuss the importance of career coaching and developing soft skills for investment professionals. Emphasising the need to balance technical capability with soft skills and self-awareness in the workplace, Emma and Aranzazu look at practical ways that young professionals can build leadership qualities, highlighting the strength that comes from adaptability and trust in leadership.

In this episode, Ulrich Amoussou, CFA, Investment Associate at Reventus Power, has a wide-ranging chat with Patric Okumi, Liquidnet/TP ICAP Group Group. Patric shares his journey from Ghana to becoming a senior executive in finance, along with the challenges and triumphs he experienced along the way. Patric highlights perseverance, authenticity, and continuous learning as the keys to doing well, with a particular focus on networking, and his takeaways from the Investment Management Certificate. Patric also discusses the value of entrepreneurship in understanding the finance industry, with a focus on his own venture ADINKRA, which aims to celebrate African culture through fashion. For more information on the IMC, please visit cfauk.org/imc

In this episode, Aranzazu Sardina catches up with Victoria McLean, CEO of City CV and Hanover Talent Solutions, to discuss the significance of setting boundaries in the workplace, and how it impacts professional development and mental health. Victoria emphasises the importance of recognising personal limits, the types of boundaries that exist, and practical tips for establishing and maintaining these boundaries. She and Aranzazu also explore how overcoming the fear of saying no can help people to be content in their professional journeys.

In this episode of the Future Proofing Finance podcast, Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, catch up with Richard Cookson, formerly of Citi Private Bank, HSBC, and Rubicon Fund Management. Richard shares his extensive experience in finance, and together they embark on a world tour of global currencies, inflation trends, and economic challenges. Richard emphasises the endurance of the dollar, the complexities of inflation, and the potential pitfalls of the euro and renminbi. He also draws parallels between Japan's economic history and China's current situation, while offering valuable advice for young finance professionals navigating today's market.

In this podcast episode, John Teahan, CFA, discusses the critical issue of methane emissions and their impact on climate change with Dr Sam Cornish, transition research specialist at The Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change ( IIGCC). They explore the sources of methane and its role in global warming, the challenges of measuring and reporting emissions, and the regulatory landscape that surrounds methane. Sam concludes with some useful strategies for mitigating methane emissions. For more information on IIGCC’s work on research, please visit https://www.iigcc.org/resources/momentum-addressing-methane-emissions-fossil-fuel-ops

The financial advice gap is often overlooked as an issue – but its importance for people across the income spectrum cannot be overstated. In this episode, Patrick DeBattista, CFA, speaks with Fleur Iannazzo, CFA to define the gap, the consequences of a lack of financial advice, and its importance to people’s financial wellbeing. Fleur shares her personal journey, the challenges faced by individuals seeking financial advice, and the importance of cultural shifts in financial conversations. They also discuss the need for accessible financial education and the role of businesses in promoting financial wellbeing.

In this conversation, David Manuel, Founder and CIO of Beagle Partners LLP, interviews Christine Brentani, Senior Principle Consultant at ACA Group. Discussing the impact of sustainability regulations on asset managers and the changing landscape of the industry, Christine shares her journey from fund management to regulatory risk and compliance. David and Christine also explore the evolution of sustainability regulations and the future trends that fund managers should pay attention to. Christine reflects on her experience attending COP27 and COP28 and the progress being made on key milestones. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA are joined by Neville Hill, an expert in long-term policy and climate change. They discuss the costs and benefits of decarbonisation against the technical challenges of achieving net zero. They discuss the need for business to innovate and adapt as the economy adjusts to the requirements of net zero transition. Neville highlights the importance of actionable analysis in understanding large-scale, long term economic and environmental changes, and offers insights into fostering innovation and addressing the US deficit.

In this conversation, Francesca Wheble, Responsible Investment Lead, Guinness Global Investors, interviews Oliver King, CAIA, Sustainable Investing Product Specialist, Fusion by JP Morgan, to talk about some of the challenges faced by asset owners and managers in integrating ESG data into their investment processes. Exploring the developing landscape of sustainable investments, they discuss the importance of data coverage and quality, and the need for disaggregating ESG factors, while maintaining the importance of transparency in the future of sustainable investing. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: https://shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, Fleur Iannazzo CFA, Founder of WTF Money, interviews Patrick DeBattista CFA, Founder of Finance For You, to share his career transition story, and his mission to democratise financial education. Discussing the lack of financial literacy and the need for holistic financial planning, Patrick also talks about the challenges of starting a business, and the importance of building relationships and diversifying income streams. Looking back at his earlier career, Francesca and Patrick explore balancing sustainability and profitability in business, and the happiness that comes with making a difference in people’s lives.

In this episode, John Teahan, CFA is joined by Shu Ling Liauw and Marina Lou of Accela Research. They discuss their backgrounds and how they founded Accela to provide objective analysis and insights on climate transition plans to drive change and help investors make more informed decisions. The conversation explores the road to achieving decarbonisation targets in the oil and gas industry and the need for realistic and deliverable targets. There’s also a focus on choosing which issues to target, such as transforming the energy system and changing customer demand for sustainable products. To check out Accela Research, visit: www.accelaresearch.com For Accela's latest insights, head to their LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accela-research/

In this episode, Katriona Baker, Sustainability and Environment Manager at GEO Specialty Chemicals, speaks to Dr Melanie Windridge, founder and CEO of Fusion Energy Insights, to discuss fusion energy and its importance as an investment opportunity. Covering the fusion’s development history, where it is, and where funding could take it, Katriona and Melanie also discuss the role of AI and computational power in fusion research, along with the breakout technologies that have come from it. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, Aranzazu Sardina, Senior Relationship Manager at Genesis Investment Management, speaks to Sheena Pentin, Founder and Director of Careers for Change, to discuss career management and soft skills. Sheena shares her career transition journey and the inspiration behind setting up an impact finance recruitment consultancy. She also highlights the key soft skills needed for a career in the impact finance sector and offers advice for candidates looking to make a career change.

In this conversation, Francesca Wheble, Responsible Investment Lead at Guinness Global Investors, interviews Douglas Hepworth, COO and Chief Risk Officer of Gresham Investment Management. Discussing Douglas’ and Gresham’s background, they explore the environmental impact of futures trading, how the Ukraine conflict provoked upended the sustainability movement, and the challenges of evaluating investments made with private capital. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, John Teahan, CFA interviews Mike Coffin of The Carbon Tracker Initiative. Exploring Mike’s background as a geologist and his transition to working at Carbon Tracker, alongside its focus on climate alignment and transition risk. They also delve into the topics of demand, scenarios, energy transition and the future of the oil and gas industry, and the need for diversified economies in petro-states.

In this podcast episode, hosts Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, interview Rupert Mathieu, Sainty Hird & Partners, a headhunter in the financial services industry. Examining the changing nature of headhunting, Rupert explains the evaluation process and the importance of context in finding the right candidates. He also shares insights on building networks and the role of LinkedIn. Touching on the cyclical nature of the industry and the need for realism, Rupert emphasises the importance of due diligence in choosing an employer, and the role of education and diversity in financial services.

In this episode, Maha Khan Phillips, Co-Editor at Impact Investor, and Alexandra Morris, CIO at SKAGEN Funds, discuss gender and DEI in the investment industry. The percentage of female fund managers globally stands at just 12.1%, with minimal progress over the years. Exploring the challenges of attracting and retaining women in the industry, Maha and Alexandra discuss the Women in Finance Charter as an initiative to increase gender balance in the industry, and look at ways to encourage more women to showcase themselves and inspire the younger generation.

In this episode, James Doyle, Director, Green Finance, Investment Management, and Community Champion in the CFA UK Sustainability Community, speaks to Paris Jordan CFA, Head of Responsible Investing at Charles Stanley and Co-Founder of Virtuvest. Exploring the role of discretionary wealth managers and the importance of fiduciary duty in sustainability, they also delve into the challenges of balancing profit and impact, alongside integrating sustainability into the traditional investment model. The CFA UK Sustainability Community is buzzing with daily discussions, virtual meet-ups, and in-person gatherings, offering numerous opportunities for you to get involved. Our Community is a virtual and in-person hub for investment professionals to grow together as sustainable investing experts. This is the go-to place for sustainable investing knowledge, resources and contacts. You can post questions on our forum, connect with other members online and join an informal catch up in the pub. For more information on the Sustainability Community and how to join, click here: https://shorturl.at/drsHV

In this episode, Gerhard Sogl, CFA, interviews Christophe Roehri, Deputy CEO of TOBAM, an asset manager which focuses on human rights based in France. Christophe shares insights on the importance of human rights in enabling economic development and the impact of autocratic regimes on portfolio performance. He also provides advice for junior professionals in the industry, emphasising the value of being different and seeking new perspectives.

John Teahan, CFA is joined by Lucille Bonnet, Managing Partner at Klima Energy Transition and Managing Director at Alantra Energy Transition, and member of Supervisory Board at Sunroof. John and Lucille discuss her own career path, and the need for independent investors in European venture capitalism. Looking at the impact from US inflation and the future goal to decentralise green energy, they look deeper at Klima’s composition as an SFDR article 9 fund.

In a deep dive looking at a long and storied career, Ulrich Amoussou, CFA, speaks to Bill Maldonado, CEO of Eastspring Investments. Examining Bill’s career trajectory and its greatest takeaways, the two discuss how things have changed for young investors since he embarked on his career. Moving onto his approach to nurturing young talent and the need for resilience in tough periods, they also discuss how Eastspring positions itself as one of the biggest asset managers in Asia.

What are the best ways younger professionals can push forward in finance, and how can senior professionals help that happen? In this episode, Maha Khan Phillips talks to Fleur Iannazzo, CFA, founder and executive coach at WTF Money. With almost two decades of industry experience in managing the dos and don’ts of professional development, Fleur and Maha explore common challenges for younger professionals. Their discussion includes negotiating pay rises and mapping out their next career steps, alongside advice for industry veterans in training and retaining young talent.

In our first Future Proofing Finance podcast of the year, hosts Ben Ashby and Tom Threlfall, CFA, spoke to Robby Yung, CEO of Animoca Brands, about the evolving nature of ownership in the tech space. Covering new frontiers in Web3, they talk about the true value of blockchain technology beyond the hype. Digging deeper, they discuss closer integration of hardware and software rights in things like cars and smartphones, and the opportunities and pitfalls to look out for in the world of crypto.

In this episode, Maha Khan Phillips had a broad conversation with Furio Pietribiasi, CEO of Mediolanum International Funds, which is the European Asset Management platform of Banca Mediolanum Group. He is responsible for Mediolanum Business Operations in Ireland, and is a member of the Board of Mediolanum International Life. Maha and Furio explore the market landscape for boutique firms and their common characteristics, alongside the key driving themes and forces throughout Furio’s storied career in the Irish financial services industry. Lastly, they discuss nurturing younger talent to become their best selves in the workplace, and the personal lessons Furio would pass on.

John Teahan, CFA, portfolio manager at Redwheel speaks to James Alexander, CEO of UKSIF, charting his career from student politics, to megacity projects and finally to his position as CEO. Within the UK financial industry, James and John map the sustainability landscape across the most influential government departments, to the regulators and task forces that are shaping standards and disclosures.