Morgan Stanley raises women’s interest in investment banking: Firm seeks to overcome misconceptions about the sector’s macho culture

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to observe how Morgan Stanley is seeking to overcome misconceptions about the nature of investment banking, concern over work–life balance and fears of the existence of a glass ceiling.

Design/methodology/approach

It outlines the bank’s various initiatives to connect with women during their studies or at an early stage in their careers.

Findings

It highlights the importance of outreach work with schools and universities, plus the key role played at the bank by women’s networking groups.

Practical implications

It reveals that the company won the 2013 Opportunity Now inspiring the workforce of the future award for its initiatives aimed at increasing the proportion of women in its top jobs.

Social implications

It reveals how a major investment bank is seeking to challenge the macho image of investment banking.

Originality/value

It explains that Morgan Stanley reached more than 1,600 women at female-specific events in 2012 alone. It views this approach to building a female talent pipeline as a multi-year strategy.

Citation

Pollitt, D. (2014), "Morgan Stanley raises women’s interest in investment banking: Firm seeks to overcome misconceptions about the sector’s macho culture", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 22 No. 7, pp. 12-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/HRMID-10-2014-0134